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Disability For Diabetes

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Is Diabetes A Disability?


In some countries, including the US and the UK, Type 1 diabetes is a disability. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) indicates that diabetic patients must get reasonable accommodations. Employers provide work accommodations to ensure that people with disabilities can live and work comfortably. 

Diabetes prevents optimal functioning of the endocrine system. The Rehabilitation Act of 2009 and its amendments specify that diabetes is a disability. 

Diabetes is a fairly common condition that affects a significant portion of the US population. The condition affects individuals of different ages but is more common among older people. 

According to medical data, diabetes is significantly on the rise because of changes in lifestyle over the years. More sedentary lifestyles, obesity, high blood pressure, and use of recreational drugs are some of the most common causes of diabetes.

Symptoms of Diabetes

At a certain point, diabetes becomes disabling. Generally though, it is an invisible disability. The condition is often manageable, but when it’s uncontrolled, it can lead to more health issues even if the person outwardly appears healthy.

Some symptoms of diabetes include:

  • Severe fatigue
  • Frequent urination
  • Extreme eating disorders
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Blurred vision
  • Cardiovascular impairments
  • Neurological problems

To meet the specific qualification criteria, you must have a diagnosis of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Additionally, impairments that will make one eligible for SSDI or SSI for diabetes, include the following:

  • Acidosis
  • Neuropathy
  • Diabetic Retinopathy

These impairments are considered in evaluating diabetes as a qualifying disability. Diabetes can harm an individual’s body and can lead to secondary disorders such as blindness, depression, and others.

Is Type 1 a disability?

According to the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), Type 1 diabetes qualifies as a disability. It occurs when the pancreas cannot function properly, thereby compelling the body to not produce any sugars. Most people with diabetes must take medications, monitor their diet, and inject insulin daily.

Is Type 2 a disability?

Yes, Type 2 diabetes is considered a disability. With Type 2, an individual’s metabolism is affected. 

Two types of social security benefits for diabetes are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). People who have a work history can apply for SSDI. Those who do not have a work history may be eligible for SSI.

Role of medical assessments in your disability

disability for diabetes
If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes and you have symptoms that are preventing you from leading a normal life, you may be eligible for disability. There are specific medical assessments that can help you become eligible to receive benefits. Along with a diabetes diagnosis, you will need to provide proof that your symptoms are uncontrollable or that you suffer from co occurring conditions.

Diabetes and disability share a relationship that is slightly complex, and the disability cases of individuals vary from one to another. It is advisable that you work closely with your health professional to properly present your case and provide the necessary proof. They can help you with providing the proper medical documentation and suggest certain tests to prove your disability.

Can You Get Disability for Diabetes?

Yes, under most laws, diabetes is protected as a disability. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are both considered disabilities. 

There are additional criteria that a person seeking disability must meet beyond the general diagnosis. If an individual qualifies for benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will provide support to help in covering the following:

  • Medical bills
  • Living expenses
  • Childcare

One must keep in mind that just a diagnosis of diabetes will not qualify you for Social Security Disability (SSD). There are specific SSA guidelines that must be followed to attain diabetes disability benefits. You will only be eligible if your symptoms match with the terms or show complications that adversely impact your ability to work. Additionally, the condition prevent you from working for at least 12 months

Need legal help? File a disability claim for diabetes.

If you are finding it challenging to prove your disability and are lacking legal help, you might want to hire a diabetes disability lawyer. They will have years of experience that enable them to understand the ins and outs of your case. They can assist with all aspects of the process including paperwork, valuable advice, collecting medical evidence, and more.