[{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BlogPosting","@id":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/is-parkinsons-disease-considered-a-disability\/#BlogPosting","mainEntityOfPage":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/is-parkinsons-disease-considered-a-disability\/","headline":"Is Parkinson\u2019s Disease Considered a Disability?","name":"Is Parkinson\u2019s Disease Considered a Disability?","description":"Parkinson\u2019s disease is considered a disability under both federal and state laws in the United States. The Americans with Disabilities […]","datePublished":"2023-11-21","dateModified":"2024-11-11","author":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/author\/ceastway\/#Person","name":"Developer","url":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/author\/ceastway\/","identifier":1,"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/8ea7fc410413ee0b715aee4c6b2d912c09623af5f85eaca6f6d7e0a2c223e1df?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/8ea7fc410413ee0b715aee4c6b2d912c09623af5f85eaca6f6d7e0a2c223e1df?s=96&d=mm&r=g","height":96,"width":96}},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Fox Trail Memory Care","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"http:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/logo.png","url":"http:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/logo.png","width":474,"height":250}},"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/is-parkinsons-disease-considered-a-disability-hero.jpg","url":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/is-parkinsons-disease-considered-a-disability-hero.jpg","height":504,"width":768},"url":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/is-parkinsons-disease-considered-a-disability\/","about":["dementia"],"wordCount":1033,"articleBody":"Parkinson\u2019s disease is considered a disability under both federal and state laws in the United States. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines disabilities as physical or mental impairments that substantially limit one or more major life activities, including movements such as walking, standing, and coordination. If you have Parkinson\u2019s, you can claim two types of disability benefits: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).What Is Parkinson\u2019s Disease?Parkinson\u2019s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects the way a person moves, speaks, and thinks. It is a disabling condition that can cause a wide range of physical and mental symptoms, including tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. While there is no cure for Parkinson\u2019s disease, there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.Understanding the Definition of DisabilityAccording to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a disability is defined as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.People with Parkinson\u2019s may experience a wide range of symptoms that can make it difficult to perform everyday activities, such as walking, talking, and even eating. The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes Parkinson\u2019s disease as a disability, and those who suffer from it may be eligible for disability benefits.For those living with Parkinson\u2019s disease, disability benefits can provide much-needed financial support. It\u2019s important to note, however, that the SSA has strict guidelines for determining eligibility.How to Access Disability Benefits for Parkinson\u2019s DiseaseTo be eligible for Social Security disability benefits with Parkinson\u2019s disease, you must meet the following requirements:Your inability to work must be expected to last for at least a year.Your condition must meet the specific criteria outlined in the SSA\u2019s \u201cBlue Book,\u201d which is a list of conditions that qualify for disability benefits. This includes having:Significant motor function issues in two limbs, making it extremely difficult to stand up from a seated position, maintain balance while standing or walking, or use your upper limbs. ORA marked limitation in physical functioning, along with a limitation in one of the following areas: understanding, remembering, or applying information, interacting with others, concentrating, persisting, or maintaining pace, adapting or managing oneself.Meeting these criteria is likely to classify you as disabled by the SSA, making you eligible for Social Security disability benefits for Parkinson\u2019s disease.Filing for Social Security Disability For Parkinson\u2019s Disease DiagnosisHere are 5 steps that you can take to get started with your application for Social Security disability benefits:Choose your application method: You can apply online or visit your local SSA Field Office in person.Complete the necessary forms: Carefully fill out the provided forms by the SSA, ensuring that all relevant information is included.Gather comprehensive medical evidence: Establish your Parkinson\u2019s disease as a disability by providing a detailed medical history and results from physical examinations.Document physical and mental limitations: Have your neurologist document any movement difficulties, balance issues, or work-related challenges. Also, mention any concentration or emotional control problems you experience.Include treatment details: Provide information on the medications, surgeries, and therapies you have received. If your condition has worsened despite treatment, make sure to mention it.If you have any uncertainties about the disability application process for Parkinson\u2019s or have questions about what evidence to include, consider seeking assistance from a disability lawyer or advocate. They are often an invaluable resource for disability claimants and can significantly improve your chances of success.Types of Benefits You Can Claim for Parkinson\u2019s DiseaseSocial Security Disability (SSDI) BenefitsSSDI benefits are for people who used to have a job but now can\u2019t work because of a disability like Parkinson\u2019s. To get SSDI benefits for Parkinson\u2019s, the SSA must consider your Parkinson\u2019s to be a disability, and you must have sufficient work credits. The specific number of work credits you need depends on your age and how much you\u2019ve worked in the past.Supplemental Security Income (SSI) BenefitsSSI benefits are for people or families who have a disability like Parkinson\u2019s and have limited income(s) and resources. If you\u2019re eligible for SSDI, you\u2019re also likely eligible for Medicare. This is because people who qualify for SSDI can get Medicare after a 24-month waiting period. And many SSI recipients qualify for Medicaid. These monthly payments and medical coverage help make sure you and your family have what you need.Medicare or MedicaidMedicare and Medicaid are federal programs that cover most healthcare costs. Medicare is a federal program available to people with disabilities and those aged 65 and over. If you qualify for SSDI benefits with Parkinson\u2019s, you\u2019ll also be eligible for Medicare. Medicaid is a federal healthcare program that provides services predominantly to low-income individuals and families.Resources & Support for Those with Parkinson\u2019s DiseaseAside from disability benefits, there are other resources available to support individuals living with Parkinson\u2019s disease. These include:Support GroupsMany organizations offer support groups for individuals with Parkinson\u2019s disease and their caregivers. These groups provide a safe space to share experiences, information, and emotional support.Exercise ProgramsRegular exercise has been shown to have a positive impact on the symptoms of Parkinson\u2019s disease. Many hospitals, community centers, and non-profit organizations offer specialized exercise programs for individuals with the disease.Financial AssistanceIn addition to disability benefits, there may be financial assistance available for individuals with Parkinson\u2019s disease. This can include grants, scholarships, and other forms of aid.Get Support from Fox Trail Memory CareAt Fox Trail Memory Care, we understand the challenges that come with living with Parkinson\u2019s and are here to provide the support and resources needed to make life easier. Our team is dedicated to helping those with Parkinson\u2019s get the care and assistance they need to live a full and meaningful life.Reach out to us today to learn more about our memory care living options and how we can support you or your loved one with Parkinson\u2019s disease."},{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Blog","item":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/#breadcrumbitem"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Is Parkinson\u2019s Disease Considered a Disability?","item":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/is-parkinsons-disease-considered-a-disability\/#breadcrumbitem"}]}]