Arthritis can affect much more than simply walking.
Pain, stiffness and reduced movement can make everyday tasks such as washing, dressing, getting in and out of bed or using the bathroom significantly harder.
Although Attendance Allowance itself does not provide a separate mobility component, care or supervision needs resulting from a physical health condition can still be relevant to an application.
For example, arthritis might mean you need:
Help getting dressed, assistance getting safely in or out of the shower, support during the night, help getting out of bed or somebody nearby because of a risk of falling.
It is the impact of your condition and the help you need that matters.
People often adapt their routines gradually and therefore fail to recognise just how much additional support they now require.
If you’re unsure whether your arthritis or another long-term condition could qualify, Caring Futures can review your circumstances and help you understand your options.
Don’t assume your difficulties are simply “part of getting older”. Check whether you could be entitled to support.
