Mental health is something that all of us cherish, and which is so close to our identity as persons. When a loved one begins to show signs of cognitive decline, then, it can be a concerning thing for them and their family. Catching mental decline early is a good thing, because it can help patients and their doctors come up with a plan to delay the onset of the condition.
Recent studies focusing on early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s have shown that simple testing can often accurate reflect the likelihood of the condition developing. Such testing includes scratch-and-sniff tests and noninvasive eye exams, both of which can point to a loss of brain cells as occurs in early-onset Alzheimer’s. All of this is certainly positive.
Catching mental decline early is important so that families can plan for the future, particularly with respect to finances. In this area, Social Security disability may be available even for those with early signs of Alzheimer’s. Early onset Alzheimer’s is among the conditions on the Compassionate Allowances list, which means that those who apply for SSDI based on the condition are able to receive a decision swiftly rather than waiting months or more to hear back. This doesn’t mean that one will automatically be approved–one must meet the requirements for disability and present adequate evidence.
Those who are beginning to experience cognitive decline which interferes with their ability to work should certainly consider speaking with an experienced SSDI attorney to have their case evaluated and the obtain assistance in submitting an application.
Source: The Washington Post, “Alzheimer’s researchers hunt for new tools to identify disease’s onset,” Fredrick Kunkle, July 13, 2014. Alz.org, “Social Security Disability,” Accessed July 31, 2014.