Arthritis is a chronic condition that affects the joints and can cause pain, inflammation, and limited mobility. While arthritis can impact the quality of life for many people, it is not always considered a disability. This article will discuss when arthritis is considered a disability and what people with arthritis can do to access disability benefits. . It is also important for people with arthritis to understand their rights and protections under the ADA. If you have arthritis and are struggling with daily activities or work, it is important to talk to your doctor and seek assistance from a disability attorney or advocate.

What Is a Disability?

A disability is a condition that impairs a person's ability to perform normal daily activities, such as walking, dressing, or caring for oneself. The definition of a disability varies depending on the context, but generally, it is a condition that prevents a person from working or participating in daily life activities.

Arthritis as a Disability

Arthritis can be considered a disability when it affects a person's ability to perform normal daily activities and work. People with arthritis may experience pain, inflammation, and limited mobility, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks and work-related activities.

To be considered a disability, arthritis must meet the criteria set by the Social Security Administration (SSA) or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The SSA and the ADA have different criteria for determining disability, so it is important to understand the requirements of each when applying for disability benefits.

Social Security Administration Criteria for Arthritis

The SSA considers arthritis a disability when it meets the following criteria:

• Arthritis must result in significant limitations in joint function, such as difficulty walking, standing, or climbing stairs.
• Arthritis must last or be expected to last for at least 12 months.
• Arthritis must be documented by a medical provider and meet the criteria outlined in the SSA's Blue Book of Impairments.
• The SSA's Blue Book of Impairments lists specific criteria for different types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. To be considered a disability under the SSA's criteria, arthritis must meet the specific criteria outlined in the Blue Book of Impairments.

Americans with Disabilities Act Criteria for Arthritis

The ADA considers arthritis a disability when it substantially limits a major life activity, such as walking, standing, or caring for oneself. The ADA does not require that arthritis last for a specific time, but it must significantly impact the person's ability to perform normal daily activities.

Accessing Disability Benefits

If arthritis is considered a disability under the SSA or ADA criteria, people with arthritis may be eligible for disability benefits. Disability benefits can include:

• SSDI: SSDI is a federal insurance program for people who cannot work due to a disability.
• Private disability insurance: Private disability insurance is a type of coverage provided by an employer or purchased by an individual. Private disability insurance may provide financial assistance if a person cannot work due to a disability.

To access disability benefits, people with arthritis should work with their doctor to document the impact of their arthritis on their ability to perform normal daily activities and work. This may include medical records, doctor's notes, and other supporting documentation. People with arthritis should also understand the requirements of the SSA or ADA and gather all necessary documentation to support their disability claim.

Conclusion

To access these benefits, it is important to work with a doctor to document the impact of arthritis on daily activities and work and to understand the requirements of the SSA or ADA. It is also important for people with arthritis to understand their rights and protections under the ADA. The ADA prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities and requires employers to make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities, including people with arthritis.

If you have arthritis and are struggling with daily activities or work, it is important to talk to your doctor and seek assistance from a disability attorney or advocate. While arthritis can impact the quality of life for many people, it is not always considered a disability. By working with a medical professional and understanding the requirements for disability benefits, people with arthritis can access the support they need to improve their quality of life.