The experience of having a stroke can be terrifying all by itself. However, many strokes leave patients with residual effects that limit mobility and affect their lives in a dramatic way. Their lives are permanently altered.
A stroke that causes severe residual effects is often clearly qualified for disability benefits. Sometimes though, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will grant benefits even when a stroke produces more mild deficits, like decreased mobility.
According to the United States Bone and Joint Initiative (USBJI), musculoskeletal conditions, including bone and joint injuries, affect more than 54 percent of working-age adults in the U.S.
Injuries and chronic conditions, like arthritis, tendonitis, and connective tissue disorders, are among the most common causes of disability in the U.S., and under certain circumstances, can qualify for disability benefits.
Disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) are only available to people who have serious, long term, or permanent disabilities.
Some applicants may also qualify for expedited review of their disability claims because they have conditions that the SSA has identified as inherently disabling.
These conditions are part of the SSA’s Compassionate Allowance (CAL) program and an applicant with a CAL condition can expect to receive a decision on eligibility within just a few weeks after filing.
Assistive technology (AT) refers to any product, system, equipment, or software used by disabled persons to improve their working and daily lives. From special joysticks and keyboards to specialized computers and communication systems, millions of Americans currently rely on various forms of AT.
Unfortunately, some users are unaware that their disabilities may qualify them for disability insurance. Moreover, some feel that their disabilities may make it too hard to fill out the application.