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Is Alzheimer’s Considered A Disability?

Published on June 12th, 2024

According to the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) blue book, Alzheimer’s disease meets the criteria for being classified as a neurological disability. Both early-onset Alzheimer’s disease and its advanced stages can severely impact a person’s life.

Our lawyers recognize the challenges that come with this medical condition. As a result, we created this guide that provides essential information to help you achieve social security disability benefits. This includes

  • The disease’s progression
  • Criteria for benefits
  • Necessary documentation for the initial application and appeals process

A hand holding a silver stylus points to one of dozens of MRI brain scans on a lightboard.

Alzheimer’s Defined

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disorder that primarily affects the brain. It leads to memory loss, cognitive decline, and personality changes. It is the most common cause of dementia. This is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life.

Alzheimer’s disease affects each individual differently, but it typically progresses slowly in three stages: early, middle, and late stage.

Knowing the traits of each stage helps determine the level of support and care needed as the condition changes.

Who Can Develop Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s disease mostly affects individuals over the age of 65, commonly referred to as late-onset Alzheimer’s. However, early-onset Alzheimer’s can impact younger adults, even those in their 30s or 40s.

This change can be hard because it affects people during their busiest years. This often leads to life-altering issues with work and family.

Genetics often play the main role in the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Diet and exercise over time can also play critical roles in the disease’s development.

How Is Alzheimer’s Disabling?

Alzheimer’s disease leads to cognitive decline that alters a person’s ability to think, remember, and reason. This decline affects everyday tasks and activities and can make independent living challenging.

As the disease worsens, people may have trouble talking, recognizing family, or caring for themselves. This means that they will need around-the-clock care and supervision.

Since this disease follows a predictable course, families of those diagnosed should quickly apply for disability benefits. Getting social security disability benefits sooner can help reduce the financial stress of the disease for this person.

What Do You Need To Achieve Disability Benefits For Alzheimer’s Disease

To qualify for disability benefits, comprehensive documentation is crucial to prove the impact of Alzheimer’s disease. This includes

  • Medical Records
    • Required documentation includes medical history, examination findings, laboratory test results, and an evaluation of mental and physical impairments due to Alzheimer’s. This evidence must align with SSA’s standard medical criteria for neurological disorders.
  • Physician Statements
    • Describing how symptoms interfere with daily functions and a person’s ability to work.
  • Personal Statements
    • From family members or caregivers, outlining day-to-day challenges to provide context to the clinical findings.

Providing more evidence of your loved one’s condition can help them qualify for Social Security disability benefits. More evidence increases their chances of approval.

How Long Does The Application Process Take

Navigating the disability benefits application process can be lengthy. Initially, it may take several months to receive a decision. An appeal means the process can take even longer.

Being thorough and proactive in gathering and submitting all required documentation from the start can help streamline the process.

Miller’s Disability Law, Alzheimer’s & Disability Benefits

At Miller Disability Law, we are deeply committed to supporting individuals with physical and psychological disabilities. We recognize the complexities involved in applying for disability benefits. Not only does it have a profound impact on the disease but all aspects of life for your family.

Our legal team works hard to understand and handle these challenges, so our clients get the most help possible.

Schedule a free claim consultation with Miller Disability Law to discuss your case in detail. Our goal is to alleviate some of the burden during this challenging time. We want you to focus on what matters most: the health and well-being of your family.

Contact us today at (865) 637-0515 if you or a loved one needs help with disability benefits.

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