Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. However, individuals with diabetes either do not produce enough insulin or their bodies do not respond properly to it. As a result, blood sugar levels become elevated, potentially leading to serious health complications over time.
Types of Diabetes and Their Impact on Daily Life
There are two primary types of diabetes:
- Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the pancreas produces little to no insulin. It typically develops early in life and requires insulin therapy to manage.
- Type 2 Diabetes: A condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough. It is often associated with lifestyle factors, including diet, lack of physical activity, and genetics.
While many individuals manage their diabetes with medication, lifestyle changes, and monitoring blood sugar levels, some may experience severe complications that interfere with their ability to work and perform everyday activities. These complications can include:
- Neuropathy: Nerve damage that can cause tingling, pain, or loss of sensation in the hands and feet.
- Retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision issues or blindness.
- Kidney Disease: Impaired kidney function, which can progress to kidney failure.
- Cardiovascular Issues: Increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.
- Amputations: Due to poor circulation and nerve damage, some individuals may require limb amputations.
For those experiencing these complications, maintaining employment can become impossible. At Disability Advocates Group, we understand how overwhelming it can be to live with diabetes and navigate the Social Security Disability application process at the same time. We have successfully helped many clients with diabetes obtain the benefits they need and deserve.
Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits for Diabetes
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two primary types of disability benefits for individuals unable to work due to severe medical conditions: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both programs require that your condition significantly limits your ability to work and perform daily activities. For individuals with diabetes, qualifying for SSDI or SSI can be challenging, but it is possible if certain criteria are met.
Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Diabetes in California
To qualify for disability benefits with diabetes, you must demonstrate that your condition severely limits your ability to work or function independently. The SSA does not list diabetes as a qualifying disability on its own, but individuals can still qualify if they have complications that meet specific medical listings or if they can show that the condition severely impairs their ability to perform any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
Here are some common ways in which individuals with diabetes may qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits:
Severe Complications:
You may qualify if you suffer from serious complications related to diabetes that meet the SSA’s medical listings for conditions like:
- Peripheral Neuropathy: Chronic nerve damage that affects movement, strength, or sensation.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: Vision impairment that affects your ability to see well enough to perform work-related activities.
- Chronic Kidney Disease: If your kidney function is significantly compromised.
Residual Functional Capacity (RFC):
If your condition does not meet a specific medical listing, the SSA will evaluate your residual functional capacity (RFC) to determine whether your symptoms and complications limit your ability to perform your previous job or any other type of work. This evaluation will consider:
- Limitations in Standing or Walking: For those with neuropathy or poor circulation, prolonged standing or walking may be impossible.
- Vision Limitations: Diabetic retinopathy may make it difficult to perform work that requires good vision.
- Cognitive Impairments: High or low blood sugar levels can sometimes lead to confusion, difficulty focusing, or other cognitive issues.
Contact Our California Social Security Disability Attorney Today
Applying for and receiving Social Security Disability benefits can be overwhelming, especially if you are struggling with a chronic condition like diabetes. The application process is complex, requiring detailed medical records, proper documentation, and knowledge of what the SSA is looking for in a disability claim. At Disability Advocates Group, we are here to help you every step of the way.
If diabetes and its complications are preventing you from working, you don’t have to go through the Social Security Disability process alone. Let us help you get the benefits you need and deserve. Our team will handle the complex paperwork, gather your medical records, and represent you through every stage of the process so you can focus on your health. Contact us today for a free consultation.
