The NHS has highlighted a range of DWP benefits available to people over State Pension age to help with care costs
As we get older, we can find we suffer from numerous aches and pains. But while these can sometimes simply be irritating for others, they can also mean it is difficult to carry out essential daily living tasks.
However, help is available. According to the NHS, there are several benefits available to older people to help with the care they need. It has set out a list of what is available, together with the criteria you need to meet to be eligible.
It says: “You can get a range of benefits if you’re over State Pension age and you have an illness or disability. The extra money can help with the cost of your care.”
Attendance Allowance
The NHS says: “Attendance Allowance is for people over State Pension age who have a disability or illness severe enough to need someone to help look after them. You must have needed help for at least 6 months (unless you are terminally ill).
“You cannot usually get Attendance Allowance if you live in a care home and your care is paid for by your local authority.” There are 2 rates:
- 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
You can still claim this benefit if you have savings or other income as it is not means-tested. For more details see Attendance Allowance on gov.uk
Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit is a weekly payment. You can get it if either:
- 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 individual circumstances. However, 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, says the NHS. It advises: “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, including:
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:
