Over 50? Be Aware Of Florida Long-Term Disability Risks

‘Age is a state of mind’ is an oft-quoted sentiment, particularly among older Floridians. However, there is no denying that once you reach your 50s, you can become more accident-prone, age-related declines are more noticeable, and chronic health conditions may arise. Unfortunately, these can impact your health to the point that you are unable to work. Our Orlando long-term disability lawyer explains how to protect yourself and your options in terms of disability benefits.

Age-Related Issues in Your 50s That Increase Long-Term Disability Risks 

Aging is a part of life and becomes more noticeable with each decade that passes. By the time you reach your 50s, gray hairs and wrinkles are more common, and you may notice impacts on your cognitive skills or physical abilities.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), there are many factors that contribute to aging, including lifestyle, occupation, and genetics. However, certain types of limitations are to be expected, regardless of your background or how healthy you are. These include:

• Vision disturbances;
• Loss of muscle tone and strength;
• Reduced flexibility and coordination;
• Reduced lung capacity;
• Increased inflammation, resulting in chronic pain;
• Increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic health disorders.

All of these put you at increased risk for long-term disabilities in Florida. Disabilities can also happen due to accident injuries, which typically become more common and take longer to bounce back from the older you get.

Protecting Your Rights To Florida Long-Term Disability Benefits

Long-term disabilities are those that prevent you from working for a year or longer. You are more likely to suffer from these types of disabilities once you reach 50. In fact, the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities reports that over two-thirds of all disability claimants are age 50 or over.

If you are at or near this age, it is important to take steps to protect yourself and your rights to long-term disability benefits in Florida. These include:

• Visit your doctor regularly;
• Follow their guidance in treating chronic health conditions;
• Undergo all recommended testing and treatment;
• Keep copies of all medical records and any lost income you suffer as a result;
• Check whether you are eligible for long-term disability insurance coverage through your employer;
• Review eligibility guidelines to determine whether you may be entitled to Social Security disability benefits.

Request A Consultation With Our Florida Long-Term Disability Lawyer

While getting old may be largely a state of mind, there is no doubt you are likely to feel some of the impacts of aging once you reach your 50s. Age-related declines, chronic health conditions, and accidental injuries can put you at risk for long-term disabilities.

If you are unable to work for a year or longer, you may be entitled to long-term disability benefits in Florida. At Farrell Disability Law, we provide the trusted legal guidance needed in filing a claim and help you get the maximum amount possible. To discuss your options, contact our Florida long-term disability lawyer today and request a consultation in our Orlando or Jacksonville office.

Sources:

nia.nih.gov/health/healthy-aging/what-do-we-know-about-healthy-aging

cbpp.org/research/social-security/social-security-disability-insurance-0

ssa.gov/disability