Disability is much more common than many people realize. It can happen to anyone. While it’s true that some people are born with certain disabilities or develop them over time, there are also those who become disabled in car accidents and similar other events. An injury can happen in a split second and may have life-altering ramifications.
When you look at the statistics, the chances of a person becoming disabled before they retire have been estimated at one in three in the United States. Part of the reason for this is that disability can take so many different forms.
Top reasons for disability
Two of the top disabling conditions that affect people’s ability to work are heart disease and cancer. These conditions both have genetic links, so even eating healthy food and avoiding clear triggers can’t guarantee they won’t occur.
Back pain and arthritis are two of the other most common reasons for disability. These can simply happen as part of the aging process. Someone who’s growing older may start to experience mild back pain, but it could get worse over time, until it becomes impossible for them to do many physical activities.
Furthermore, depression is often noted as one of the top disabilities. This may be due to a chemical imbalance in the brain, and it can be worsened if someone lacks access to proper medications and treatment options.
If a disability or other serious medical condition leaves you unable to work for at least 12 months, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Whether you have questions or concerns about applying or your application or continued benefits have been denied, it can help to seek experienced legal guidance.