Hi, my name is SamyB! I'm 67, retired, and have COPD. Am I entitled to anything from the state?

SamyB

Hi, my name is SamyB and I live in Wiltshire. I visited Chester Zoo,  last Sunday and had to, for the first time use a mobility scooter to get around. The reason for this is because I have been diagnosed with severe C. O. P. D.  Can someone please explain what if anything I’m entitled to from the state as this is all new to me. I am 67 years old and worked all my life until I retired in February 2019,

Tori_Scope

Welcome to the community @SamyB Thank you for joining the community!

How did you find using your mobility scooter for the first time at Chester Zoo? 

If you're not sure what you may be able to claim, you could try using an online benefits calculator (Turn2Us). 

Money Helper and Age UK also have some information about claiming benefits and retirement, which you may find helpful. 

Would you be able to tell us a bit more about your situation, such as what you may already claim?

calcotti

For someone over pension age making a new claim the relevant disability benefit is Attendance Allowance however AA does not include an element for mobility so your need to use a scooter would not assist you. For AA you need to require frequent help to look after your personal care.

racyguy

SamyB said:

Hi, my name is SamyB and I live in Wiltshire. I visited Chester Zoo,  last Sunday and had to, for the first time use a mobility scooter to get around. The reason for this is because I have been diagnosed with severe C. O. P. D.  Can someone please explain what if anything I’m entitled to from the state as this is all new to me. I am 67 years old and worked all my life until I retired in February 2019,

As has been said, it is Attendance Allowance that you are looking at.
There is no provision for not being mobile only that due to the health condition you would require care for your personal needs - whether you get the care or not is immaterial.
 

SamyB

Thanks all for the very helpful comments, at the moment I am claiming no benefits and living on our pensions. Attendance allowance seems to be the way to go as it could fund my mobility scooter. Getting around is my greatest worry as I am now confined to the house.

Tori_Scope

Does the mobility scooter help you feel less confined to the house @SamyB? I can imagine that'd feel difficult.

As you struggle to get out, are you able to get everything you need in, such as food and medicine? 

You can read about Attendance Allowance on the Turn2Us website