It’s a sad reality that there are a number of illnesses and injuries that can affect the neurological functioning of an individual. Sufferers of these conditions may find it difficult to live what others consider a normal life, and merely functioning from day-to-day can be frustrating, painful, and downright difficult. Although these individuals may be able to obtain assistance to make their lives easier, it often comes with a great financial cost.
Many times, this is the case for those who suffer from cerebral palsy. As sufferers of this condition can have trouble with their physical abilities and their mental cognition, they may need long-term care. This can be extremely expensive, particularly when the onset of the disease occurs at a relatively young age. Such a disabled individual and his or her family may find it difficult to meet these costs, especially when the disabled individual is unable to work and contribute towards those expenses.
This is where a claim for Social Security disability may be beneficial. If successful, a disability claim may bring a disabled individual the compensation he or she needs to obtain effective medical treatment. In order to obtain these benefits, though, a cerebral palsy sufferer must meet the federal requirements.
Under the Social Security Administration’s regulations, there are three ways that an individual can qualify for disability benefits. First, he or she can demonstrate disorganization of motor function in at least two extremities. This must result in marked difficulty in standing, balancing, or walking. Second, an individual can recover benefits if he or she shows physical limitations accompanied by difficulty remembering information, understanding information, interacting with other individuals, concentrating, or managing one’s self. Lastly, a cerebral palsy sufferer may qualify for benefits if the condition significantly affects his or her ability to communicate.
Proving that one suffers from a disability worthy of compensation from the government can be a challenge. Those wanting to file a claim or appeal a claim denial may want to discuss the matter with an experienced legal professional.
Source: Social Security Administration, “11.00 Neurological – Adult,” accessed on Nov. 21, 2016
