Arthritis

gill5blue

Hi Every one,

I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis today
I have it in my left ankle and right wrist. I am going to apply for a blue badge-I feel I need it.
Is there anything else that would help me?
I am 53years old and broke my ankle 4 years ago and have been in pain daily since then. I have plates and pins in my ankle.

Regards

Gill5blue

DomRavioli

Usually the criteria would be of enhanced PIP (mobility) to get a blue badge - not a diagnosis.

Each local authority is different although in more recent times this seems to be the norm. Would you be entitled to the enhanced rate of PIP?

kingfisherblue

In my area, if you don't receive either high rate mobility (DLA) or enhanced mobility (PIP), and you apply for a blue badge, you have to go for a medical. Having arthritis or any other diagnosis is irrelevant. I've had arthritis in my knees since I was 23. I now have it in my hips, spine, ankles and wrists, and I'm still only 47. I don't have a blue badge, nor do I have a chance of getting one. I can still get around without too much difficulty, although it is painful (some days more than others). I want to stay mobile as long as possible. I believe that gentle exercise is good for arthritic joints.

gill5blue

Hi,
I don't know if I am entitled to the enhanced rate of pip, I don't claim pip- I was only diagnosed today, so I don't know the ins and outs so advice would be very helpful.
I was thinking of a blue badge because I have difficulty getting in and out of a car, I cannot twist on my ankle due to the plates and pins, plus it aches all of the time. I have to select my parking places or I cannot get out of the car-I need the door open really wide,.
Regards


Gill

SailorSam

They're not as easy to get as they once were.

http://www.disabledmotoring.org/blue-badge/eligibility-and-use?gclid=CMjVlZL4p84CFcW4GwodNIMA7Q

gill5blue

Hi,
I am happy to go for a medical, I have never applied for one before and discussing it with my doctor this morning he said that if I needed back up from him he will oblige, he thought it was a good idea to go for the blue badge.
Regards
Gill

gill5blue

Thankyou noble Viking, I will look into them
Gill

gill5blue

Hi Noble Viking,


Mine says that too, I do have 'considerable difficulty in walking'. I will have a medical, if that is what it takes to get a blue badge I can but try
Gill

Ames

Not benefits related, but have a good browse of online disability equipment shops, or the Amazon category. You'd be amazed at all the little gadgets and do-dah's that can help. As an example, I think you can get a thing that goes on the car seat to help you turn and get out of it. A steering wheel ball is great for turning the wheel one handed with less effort. There's loads of kitchen stuff, and even things like using chip pans for normal cooking, so you're lifting the pasta/veg/whatever out of the water instead of tipping out boiling water can help.

You should qualify for VAT relief on most aids too.

carlislelass

being registered blind also qualifies you at least with our council

teddysmum

Our council's listing asks that you are registered blind, have higher rate DLA mobility, or the mobility component of PIP; no mention of AA.


However, there is a further list if you don't get the appropriate DLA or PIP components. Things included are the need to transport heavy equipment for health needs , being unable to use arms to work a parking ticket machine and being unable to walk just 50 metres.