Navigating Alzheimer's Care: Seeking Disability Certification for Severe Cases

Dementia

Hello! I would like to inquire about dementia issues.
My grandmother has been diagnosed with brain atrophy and has been classified as a patient with Alzheimer's disease for over two years, with her condition progressively worsening.
Additionally, she has diabetes and has been admitted to the intensive care unit multiple times, receiving intubation treatment.
She is bedridden and unable to care for herself or speak.
Given this situation, is it possible to issue a disability certificate? My grandmother's condition has reached the severe stage of dementia, and she is unable to speak, only able to make moaning sounds.
However, the attending physician seems unwilling to provide the necessary documentation.
What should our family do? The heavy medical burden is quite overwhelming for her children.
Are there any other options available? Thank you for your response!

Guo Guo, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/08/31

Dr. Ouyang Wenzhen reply Geriatrics

Hello, Guo Guo.
Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia, and you can certainly apply for a disability certificate under the dementia category.
This type of disability assessment can be conducted by psychiatrists at specialized teaching hospitals, such as our institution (Chia-Nan Psychiatric Hospital under the Ministry of Health and Welfare), as well as at other accredited large hospitals with psychiatric or neurology departments.
It is best to have detailed examination records from the hospital, as the Ministry of the Interior has specific requirements for the assessments that need to be performed.
Regarding the financial burden, first, dementia qualifies as a major illness under the National Health Insurance, which means that medical expenses related to the treatment of this condition can be waived after obtaining the major illness card.
Second, there are various welfare benefits or subsidies available for disabilities that you can apply for.
For more details, you can contact our hospital's social work department, specifically Social Worker Li Jia-Hsin at 06-2795019-1411, or inquire with the social affairs bureau of your local government.
If a diagnostic report is needed for the subsidy, psychiatrists or neurologists at our hospital or other hospitals can provide it.
I hope this information helps clarify your concerns.
Wishing you all the best.

Director of the Senior Psychiatry Department, Chia-Nan Psychiatric Hospital, Ouyang Wenzhen.

Reply Date: 2003/08/31

More Info

Navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's care, especially when it comes to seeking disability certification, can be a daunting task for families. In your case, your grandmother's condition, characterized by severe Alzheimer's disease, significant cognitive decline, and inability to perform daily activities, certainly qualifies her for consideration for a disability certification.
In the United States, the process for obtaining disability benefits for individuals with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia typically involves several steps. The first step is to gather comprehensive medical documentation that supports the diagnosis and severity of the condition. This includes medical records, cognitive assessments, and any other relevant documentation from healthcare providers. Given your grandmother's situation, where she has been diagnosed with brain atrophy and has experienced a decline in her ability to communicate and care for herself, this documentation will be crucial.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has specific criteria for evaluating claims related to Alzheimer's disease. According to the SSA, a diagnosis of Alzheimer's must be supported by medical evidence that demonstrates the severity of the impairment. This includes cognitive tests, such as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), which assesses various cognitive functions. If your grandmother's MMSE score indicates severe impairment, this can strengthen her case for disability benefits.

If the primary physician is reluctant to provide the necessary documentation for disability certification, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from a neurologist or a geriatric specialist who has experience with dementia cases. These specialists can provide a more detailed assessment of your grandmother's condition and may be more willing to support the application for disability benefits. Additionally, they can help outline the specific limitations your grandmother faces due to her Alzheimer's disease, which is essential for the application process.

In terms of financial support, it is important to explore various options available for families caring for individuals with severe dementia. Many states offer programs that provide financial assistance or respite care for caregivers. These programs can help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with long-term care. Additionally, Medicaid may cover some of the costs related to in-home care or assisted living facilities, depending on your grandmother's financial situation.

Furthermore, consider reaching out to local Alzheimer's support organizations. These organizations often provide resources, guidance, and support for families navigating the challenges of dementia care. They can offer valuable information about the application process for disability benefits and may even assist in connecting you with legal resources if needed.

In summary, your grandmother's severe Alzheimer's disease and inability to care for herself certainly warrant consideration for disability certification. Gathering comprehensive medical documentation, seeking a second opinion, and exploring available financial assistance programs can help you navigate this process. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources and support systems available to help you and your family during this challenging time.

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