As we age, it’s common to experience some discomfort and pain. However, when these issues grow from minor annoyances into serious impediments that disrupt daily activities, it’s crucial to seek assistance.

The NHS highlights a range of benefits available for individuals who have reached State Pension age and are grappling with health conditions or disabilities. They urge people to verify their eligibility for these benefits, which aim to provide essential support and care for those in need. According to the NHS, “If you’re over State Pension age and have an illness or disability, you might qualify for various benefits. This extra financial support can help cover the costs associated with your care.”

Attendance Allowance

One such benefit, as detailed by the NHS, is the Attendance Allowance. This is intended for those over State Pension age who have a disability or illness severe enough to require someone to assist with their care. It’s essential that the need for help has been present for at least six months, unless the individual is terminally ill.

It is important to note that Attendance Allowance is typically not available to individuals residing in care homes where the local authority covers their care expenses. The benefit is offered in two different rates, depending on the level of care required.

• a lower rate if you need help either in the day or at night
• a higher rate if you need help both day and night

Crucially, this benefit is not means-tested, meaning your income or savings will not affect your eligibility. More information about Attendance Allowance can be found on the government website, gov.uk.

Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit

The NHS also mentions the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit, a weekly payment available under certain conditions. To qualify, specific criteria must be met.

• you’re disabled because of an accident at work
• you have an illness that was caused by work or an employment training scheme

The amount you get depends on your personal circumstances. You cannot get Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit if you were self-employed at the time of the accident. For more details visit Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit on gov.uk

Constant Attendance Allowance

Constant Attendance Allowance is a payment for people who are ill or disabled because of specific circumstances. The NHS says: “You can get Constant Attendance Allowance if you receive Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit or a War Disablement Pension and you need daily care because of a disability.

“How much you get depends on the extent of your disability and the amount of care you need. If you get Constant Attendance Allowance, you cannot get Attendance Allowance as well. But you may be able to get a top up to Constant Attendance Allowance.

Other benefits for older people

You may also be eligible for a number of other benefits. These include:

If you get Attendance Allowance, you could get extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction. You may also be entitled to:

You can check what benefits you are entitled to on the entitledto website

Carer’s Allowance

If you get Attendance Allowance or another disability-related benefit and you have a carer, they may be able to get Carer’s Allowance. For more details visit Carer’s Allowance on gov.uk

More help

Get benefits advice and further help with filling in claim forms from: