Arthritis Leads Attendance Allowance Claims at 484,000

New data from the Department for Work and Pensions shows that arthritis is the leading condition among recipients of Attendance Allowance, with nearly 484,000 people over State Pension age claiming the benefit for it. An additional 74,804 individuals aged 66 and older receive support for back pain, highlighting the prevalence of these issues among older adults in the UK.

Attendance Allowance provides financial help to cover extra costs associated with severe physical or mental disabilities or illnesses that affect daily self-care, such as personal hygiene, eating or mobility around the home. Unlike some benefits, it does not include a mobility component and is available only to those who have reached State Pension age. The benefit is not means-tested, meaning eligibility is unaffected by income, savings or employment status. It is also tax-free and exempt from the Benefit Cap, so it does not reduce other entitlements and may even increase payments like Pension Credit or Housing Benefit.

Recipients can receive either the lower rate of 73.90 pounds per week if they need assistance or supervision during the day or at night, or the higher rate of 110.40 pounds per week if help is...