Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects a person’s movement and coordination. As the disease advances, it can significantly impact an individual’s ability to work and perform daily activities.

If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s disease and are struggling to continue working, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits.

So is Parkinson’s Disease qualify for Social Security Disability benefits?  The short answer is “Yes”.  But whether your individual case of Parkinson’s Disease will be approved for social security disability depends on the specific circumstances of your disease.  The key question that an Administrative Law Judge will consider in your disability case:

How does your Parkinson’s Disease impact your ability to work?

This thorough guide will give you the essential data you need to be eligible for disability benefits, the medical proof needed, and the duty of disability attorneys in the procedure.

Understanding Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative brain disorder primarily affecting movement in its early stages. The condition is caused by the gradual loss of brain cells responsible for producing dopamine, a neurotransmitter crucial for smooth muscle movements. Some of the common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include:

• Tremors, usually beginning in one of the hands and often happening when the hand is at rest
• Muscle rigidity or stiffness in the limbs and trunk
• Bradykinesia, or slowness of movement, which may affect both fine and gross motor skills
• Postural instability, or difficulty in maintaining balance while standing or walking

Other symptoms that may develop as the disease progresses include cognitive problems, memory issues, mood disorders, and difficulty with speech and swallowing.

Social Security Disability Benefits for Parkinson’s Disease

The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two primary programs for individuals with disabilities, including Parkinson’s disease:

1. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): This program is designed for workers who have paid Social Security taxes and have accrued enough work credits. To qualify for SSDI, you must meet the SSA’s definition of disability and have a sufficient number of work credits.
2. Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI is a needs-based program for individuals with low income and limited resources who are either disabled, blind, or aged 65 and older. To qualify for SSI, you must meet the SSA’s definition of disability and have limited income and resources.

Medical Evidence for Parkinson’s Disease Disability Claims

When applying for disability benefits for Parkinson’s disease, it is crucial to provide sufficient medical evidence to support your claim. The SSA will evaluate your claim based on the following:

• Medical records documenting your diagnosis and symptoms
• Treatment history, including medications and therapies
• Reports from your treating physicians
• Any additional information that relates to your disability, such as test results and witness statements

The more comprehensive your medical evidence, the higher your chances of being approved for disability benefits.

Meeting the SSA’s Medical Listing for Parkinsonian Syndrome

The SSA has a specific medical listing for Parkinsonian Syndrome (Listing 11.06) in its Blue Book, which outlines the criteria required for an individual to be considered disabled due to Parkinson’s disease. To meet this listing, you must have medical evidence that demonstrates:

• Disorganization of motor function in two extremities, resulting in an extreme limitation in the ability to stand up from a seated position, balance while standing or walking, or use the upper extremities

OR

• Marked limitation in physical functioning and in one of the following:
  1. Understanding, remembering, or applying information
  2. Interacting with others
  3. Concentrating, persisting, or maintaining pace
  4. Adapting or managing oneself

If you meet these criteria, you may be considered disabled by the SSA and eligible for disability benefits.

Qualifying for Disability Benefits Based on a Reduced Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)

If your Parkinson’s disease symptoms do not meet the precise requirements of Listing 11.06, you can still qualify for disability benefits based on a reduced RFC. To do this, you must prove that your symptoms significantly limit your ability to perform basic work-related activities, resulting in an RFC that prevents you from working reliably or consistently.

The SSA will consider toe so-called medical vocational factors such as your age, education, and work experience in determining your RFC and whether there are any jobs you could still perform despite your limitations.

The Role of Disability Lawyers in Parkinson’s Disease Claims

Navigating the complex process of applying for disability benefits can be challenging, especially when dealing with a progressive condition like Parkinson’s disease. Disability lawyers can play a crucial role in helping you gather the necessary medical evidence, prepare your application, and navigate the appeals process if your claim is denied.

Experienced disability lawyers can also provide valuable guidance on meeting the SSA’s medical listing for Parkinsonian Syndrome or qualifying for disability benefits based on a reduced RFC.

Long-Term Disability Benefits for Parkinson’s Disease

In addition to SSDI and SSI, individuals with Parkinson’s disease may also be eligible for long-term disability (LTD) benefits through private insurance policies or employee benefit plans. To qualify for LTD benefits, you must meet your policy’s definition of disability and provide sufficient medical evidence to support your claim.

LTD policies often have specific clauses and limitations that can impact your eligibility for benefits, such as pre-existing condition exclusions or subjective condition limitations. Working with a disability attorney experienced in LTD claims can help ensure that your claim is prepared effectively and that you receive the benefits you deserve.

Veterans Disability Compensation for Parkinson’s Disease

Veterans with Parkinson’s disease may be eligible for disability compensation through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA evaluates disability claims for Parkinson’s based on the severity of the symptoms and their impact on the veteran’s ability to work and perform daily activities.

To qualify for VA disability benefits for Parkinson’s, you must provide medical evidence of your diagnosis and symptoms, as well as proof of your adherence to prescribed treatment. Additionally, veterans who were exposed to certain toxins during military service, such as Agent Orange, may be eligible for presumptive service connection for Parkinson’s disease.

Seeking a Free Consultation with a Disability Attorney

If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s disease and are considering applying for disability benefits, it is essential to seek the guidance of an experienced disability attorney. A free consultation can help you understand your rights, eligibility for benefits, and the best course of action for your specific situation.

From gathering the necessary medical evidence to navigating the complex application and appeals process, a disability attorney can provide invaluable support and expertise in securing the disability benefits you deserve.