Alzheimer’s affects not only the old. Many people begin to suffer from younger-onset Alzheimer’s in their forties and fifties. This can be tragic for those in the middle of raising families, pursuing careers, or even caring for their own elderly parents.
As many as 5 percent of those with Alzheimer’s are dealing with younger-onset Alzheimer’s; that’s about 200,000 people in the United States. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis of younger-onset Alzheimer’s can be difficult, as doctors rarely look for the disease in anyone under age 60. Also, Alzheimer’s impacts every sufferer differently, so symptoms can vary. Alzheimer’s causes a slow decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. When memory loss becomes chronic and begins to disrupt a person’s daily life, that person should suspect Alzheimer’s and get a diagnosis immediately.
If you are your family’s chief breadwinner and primary source of support, a diagnosis of younger-onset Alzheimer’s is a real cause for concern. It may become more difficult to find insurance, and you’ll need to consider rising healthcare costs. As the disease advances, job-related tasks will be tougher to perform. Talk with your doctor and determine when you’ll tell your employer and at what point you’ll have to stop working.
How to Apply and Strengthen Your Disability Claim Early
Younger-onset Alzheimer’s can make it impossible to continue working, making it important to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits as soon as possible. Filing early helps establish your eligibility for monthly benefits and, eventually, Medicare coverage.
Many initial SSDI applications are denied, so it’s common for applicants to go through the appeals process. Because of this, having experienced legal guidance from the beginning can make a significant difference in how your claim is handled.
An experienced Social Security disability attorney can assist with filing your claim, gathering medical evidence, completing paperwork, and representing you during hearings and appeals. This support can help reduce delays and improve your chances of approval.
If you or a loved one is facing younger-onset Alzheimer’s and can no longer work, contact an experienced Social Security disability attorney as early as possible to protect your rights and pursue the benefits you may be entitled to receive.