Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by a short-term memory loss that becomes more severe as the disease progresses. While the disease is typically common among older people, it is estimated that about 5 percent of Alzheimer’s patients exhibit symptoms in earlier life.
If you develop it before turning 65, your condition will be described as early-onset Alzheimer’s. Should this happen, you might want to find out if you qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits.
Disability and Alzheimer’s disease
Most people discover that they are suffering from Alzheimer’s disease when they are well over 65. This means that they may not be eligible for disability benefits through the SSDI or SSI programs due to the age barrier. However, if you have been diagnosed with early onset of Alzheimer’s disease before turning 65, you could be eligible for disability benefits if your symptoms and limitations are severe enough to keep you from work.
Social Security uses the listing for neurocognitive disorders to evaluate the severity of the applicants’ condition before determining their eligibility for compensation. To be eligible for SSD benefits, you must prove that your ability has significantly declined in one or more of the following areas:
- Language use – misuse of words or inability to recall certain words
- Learning and remembering, especially short-term memory
- Judgment and planning
- Moving without assistance
Documenting and applying for benefits
Proper documentation is key to ensuring a successful SSD claim. Be sure to provide up-to-date clinical records about your condition. Additionally, you may want to provide a daily activities report to demonstrate how your Alzheimer’s progression is impacting your ability to work.
An early-onset Alzheimer’s disease can hinder your ability to work and provide for yourself and your loved ones. Getting help to file your claim makes it more likely you will receive the SSD benefits you need to seek treatment and provide for your family.