DLA Application

[Boyscout19]

I was diagnosed with RA about 15 years ago when I was 62. After a fight, I was awarded the lower rate care benefit. I now have COPD and degenerative disc disease, and last September I had a fall which led me to require a shoulder replacement. When I got my COPD my overall condition worsened, but I was scared to tell the DLA people, in case they stopped the little benefit that I am given. Having the shoulder replacement has led to further problems, and I have been told that it can take up to 18 months to recover, but that I might not recover fully. My daughter has to do so much for me now and I want to see if I can get my award to the middle level but am scared in case I lose it altogether. If I had not been receiving the Lower rate DLA, I could have applied for the Attendance allowance, but am not allowed to do this. Any advice please

[AgedCrone]

Have a word with the citizens advice bureau, they have people there who are clued up on all benefits.

[Boyscout19 in reply to AgedCrone]

Thank you, will do

[Boyscout19]

Thank you, will do

[Jackie1947]

No you won't lose it so don't worry as you haven't improved. I would suggest you ring and they can send out a new application for the middle rate. Depending if you qualify or not you would still keep the lower rate . Nothing to lose so go for it.

[Boyscout19 in reply to Jackie1947]

Thank you

[BoneyC]

benefitsandwork.co.uk/

I would advise do not fill in any forms without reading up on the above website. If you can, join for a year. It's not about what diagnosis you have, but more about how those conditions affect your day to day living and what help you need.

Keep copies of everything and back up with medical evidence. Good luck!

[Boyscout19 in reply to BoneyC]

Thank you

[cyberbarn]

I would second Benefits and Work. Their guides are often used by other support organisations too.

[Boyscout19 in reply to cyberbarn]

Thank you

[Boyscout19]

Thank you