The Social Security Administration expanded its list of diseases that qualify for expedited processing including early-onset Alzheimer’s.  The addition of 38 new conditions means that “tens of thousands of Americans with devastating disabilities will now get approved for benefits in a matter of days rather than months and years,” according to Commissioner of Social Security Michael J. Astrue.

Among those who will be eligible for speedy action on their applications – known as Compassionate Allowance– are people diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s and mixed dementia. About 200,000 people in the U.S. are thought to have early-onset Alzheimer’s, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. 

Compassionate allowance is a way of quickly identifying diseases and other medical conditions that clearly qualify for Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability benefits.  It allows the agency to electronically target and make speedy decisions for the most obviously disabled individuals. 

“The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s indicates significant cognitive impairment that interferes with daily living activities, including the ability to work,” said Harry Johns, President and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association.  “Now, individuals who are dealing with the enormous challenges of Alzheimer’s won’t also have to endure the financial and emotional toll of a long disability decision process.” 

It is estimated that about five million* Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, and about 360,000 people are newly diagnosed every year. Alzheimer’s affects about 10 percent of people ages 65 and up, and the prevalence doubles roughly every 10 years after age 65. Half of the population ages 85 and up may have Alzheimer’s. 

The new Social Security process begins March 1. Here is a checklist from the Alzheimer’s Association on how to apply for Social Security disability and Supplemental Security Income Benefits for early-onset Alzheimer’s. 

Go to this Social Security website for more information on Compassionate Allowances and a list of the 38 new diseases eligible for the program.  The Alzheimer’s Association has information here that is a bit easier to understand.  

A reminder, too, for those with long-term care insurance with a diagnosis that impacts two or more activities of daily living — contact your long-term care insurance company as soon as  possible after the diagnosis.  This will provide you with clear information about your policy coverage and help you plan for future care.  If you are qualified, it may also trigger the creation of a care plan and beginning of the count on elimination days (your deductible). 

If you have a history of Alzheimer’s in your family, you might want to consider purchasing a long-term care insurance in your 40s or 50s to cover some of the potential costs of care – whether at home or in a long-term care facility.compassion