Attendance Allowance
Attendance Allowance can help you if you have an illness or disability. Find out more.
Many applications are turned down because people don't mention, or aren't clear about, how their illness or disability affects their lives. It's important that you don't downplay your needs when filling in the form.
Bear in mind that decisions about Attendance Allowance doesn’t usually take into account problems with housework, cooking, shopping and gardening – so if you struggle with these activities, make sure you give details of other problems as well.
As well as the general tips above, it's important to think about your specific needs.
Do you need help getting in and out of the bath or shower, adjusting shower controls, shaving, putting on skin creams, washing or drying your hair, or remembering to have a wash?
Do you need help adjusting your clothes after using the toilet, using the toilet at night, or changing clothes or bedding if you have an accident?
Do you need help identifying your tablets, reading and understanding instructions about taking medication, managing a condition such as diabetes, recognising if your condition deteriorates, or adjusting your hearing aid?
Do you need someone there in case you have a fall, seizure or pass out? Or in case you lack awareness of danger, could be a danger to yourself or others, or you get confused, forgetful or disorientated? Do you need someone to give you medication for angina or asthma attacks, or to help calm you down during a panic attack?
Do you need help with fastenings, buttons and shoelaces – for example, because of arthritis? Do you need help recognising when your clothes are on inside out or need changing?
Do you need any help eating and drinking? Do you need reminding to eat or, if you have sight loss, do you need someone to tell you where the food is on your plate, or to read out menus?
Do you need help understanding or hearing people, or being understood by them, answering the phone, or reading and understanding your mail?
Do you need help using the stairs, getting up from chairs, getting in and out of bed, or moving safely from room to room?
We offer support through our free advice line on 0800 678 1602. Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. We also have specialist advisers at over 120 local Age UKs.
Attendance Allowance can help you if you have an illness or disability. Find out more.
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