Benefit

[goliver374]

Well do I start I look after my wife for 9 years as she has Parkinson . At the moment she on middle rate but I know she should be on the higher rate but we scared if we apply we lose all of it what do you think I should do goliver374

[sassy59]

Hello goliver374, please apply for the higher rate as you may get it. If you need help then go to the Citizens Advice Bureau. Wishing you and your wife well. Xxxxx

[Lynd]

I understand your caution. They will completely reassess and you could come off worse.

[tobby1428]

hi goliver374,do not be frightened to apply for a higher rate,if they refuse they have to tell you why,also if they do a home visit have a friend sit in with you and your wife.remember that it is their job to assess you and your wife not to intimidate you! too many people are making ends meet because they feel that the state does not care.I am sure that you and your wife never planned to spend your life the way you find yourselves now,i know I did not,i am 65 in june and I can hardly walk and I depend on my wife and son for loads of help.they put up with so much from me as I am constantly utterly depressed with the world in general,but life must go on......so take the bull by the horns and GO FOR IT,as delboy always says you know it makes sense.i will close by wishing you and your wife all the love and luck in the world !!!¬

[Hidden]

Hi goliver374,

Please do, as other members of the community have said, apply for the higher rate if you feel this is due to you. Given your circumstances, i.e. that you already qualify for, and receive help, I think it's probably unlikely that you will be left long term with nothing. It can be frustrating to have to cope with more forms and assessments, but please don't let that put you off. And if you feel unsure about the paperwork, sassy59's suggestion to seek help from Citizens' Advice Bureau is a really good one. They are wizards at knowing what you may qualify for, and will assist with form filling. Very best wishes.

[Midori]

Please apply for Higher Rate, and ask for a Home Assessment. I have Fibromyalgia and was on Lower Rate Care, and I was bumped straight up to Higher Rate. It may also entitle you to Attendance Allowance.

[Bella395]

goliver374 - don't know if you are still following your thread because you haven't replied so far. Just want to say that we were in a similar position. With his deteriorating health I realised that he met the criteria for higher rate DLA (he was on middle rate) because he needed care at night. Like you, I had heard about losing the allowance because it is a reassessment. I spent a fair bit of time listing all his health needs, hospital admissions (usually in the night), and medications. Someone came out from AgeUK and advised not to worry about losing the existing DLA because they had never known it happen. She helped with the form filling and I supplied her with the typed up information. He got the increase with no problems. I would say do your preparation and go for it. Emphasize the care that your wife needs during the night.