Your Child and Autism

How Disability is Defined, the SSA Way

Are you wondering about the term "disability" and how it is really defined? Each of us may have an individual concept of disability and who are those that can be considered disabled and those who cannot be noted as one.

However, if you and all the others think that your idea of the definition of disability is the same as that of the Social Security Administration's then you might have to reassess your thoughts.

The Social Security Administration or SSA is the implementing agency of the Social Security Act. One of its essential tasks is setting official definitions and determination of disability.

In order to present a general context on the definition of disability, throwing significant light on a couple of longstanding myths concerning its meaning is in order.

First, SSA does not have a policy granting that only "totally disabled" persons can be eligible to obtain disability benefits. To set this myth straight, people have to realize that "totally disabled" may be an artful term used by society, but the SSA does not use such term as their definition of disability.

Even if you were to ask, about a hundred doctors to define "totally disabled" you would probably get various differing answers. However, more would define that a person who is totally disabled is a person who has lost the ability to function in any way.

Generally, for you to become eligible to apply for social security disability benefits, the SSA does not require that you not be working in any way. On the other hand, this condition does not mean that you need to be physically or psychologically incapable of functioning.

Secondly, it is not true that you have to be "permanently disabled" in order to become eligible for social security disability benefits.

"Permanently disabled" is another artful term used by society but not used in anyway by SSA to define disability. A doctor, in supporting a patient's disability benefits claim usually states that the patient is permanently disabled.

However, it is a fact that most people applying for benefits under the Social Security disability program are not actually permanently disabled. Even if it were true, it is yet too early to ascertain if a middle-aged person would be able to work again before they reach the age of 65.

To clarify matters, wholly, the SSA does not call for you to become permanently disabled. In all actuality, it has never been an issue at all in SSA whether a person's disability is or can become permanent. So what is indeed the definition of SSA and its policy regarding disability?

Basically, the SSA and the federal law, as cited in the 42 U.S.C. ?? 423(d)(1)(A) and 1382c(a)(3)(A) 42 U.S.C. ?? 423(d)(1)(A) and 1382c(a)(3)(A) defines disability as the incapacity to work or become involved in any kind of "substantial gainful activity" due to any mental or physical impairment. This impairment must be determined or diagnosed by medical authorities and could be expected to lead to death or might last continuously up to 12 months.

This definition debunks all myths claiming that disability needs to be total and permanent. You can be eligible for disability benefits once your impairment as diagnosed by doctors has prevented you to work for 12 months and more already.

Lala C. Ballatan a.k.a Kay Zetkin discovered the pleasure of writing through her daily journals way back when she was 10. With writing, she felt freedom ? to express her viewpoints and assert it, to bring out all concerns -- imagined and observed, to bear witness.

Our Los Angeles Lawyers are highly experienced in advocating claims for Social Security Disability Benefits in Los Angeles, California. Please log on to our website at http://www.mesrianilaw.com/Social-Security-Disability-Claim.html

MORE ARTICLES:

Disability Law And Advocacy Services
A number of agencies provide disability law and advocacy related services to physically and mentally disabled persons. Such agencies are available both nationally and in each US state. The importance of the advocacy of rights of disabled individuals provided under disability law cannot be understated. Disabled individuals as a group face far too many challenges in life and require help to be aware of their rights to equality vis-?? -vis other US citizens.

The OSMOMOND Family 2nd Generation at Autism Event March 24, Orlando, FL; BAAM Blast! (Books, Autism Advocacy & MOTIVATiON) with Les Brown!
Entertainers, motivational speakers, singers and authors will fill the night with entertainment, fellowship and all proceeds benefit autism charities. Tickets: $20 purchase online at: www.AmySellers.com info: 407-814-7373

Disability Insurance As An Income
Financial experts confirm that a solid income foundation includes disability income insurance. This strategy comes from the obvious need to protect your future income and yourself in case of an accident or death. During your working career the chances of getting injured are something to take notice of.

New Data Supporting the Link Between Autism and Lyme Disease
The LIA foundation plans to release new data at the Lyme-Autism Connection conference this weekend linking Autism and Lyme disease.

Why Let A Disability Limit Your Mobility?
For those of use who are able to walk around on our own, it's difficult to imagine the challenges facing those with a disability. We take for granted the simple act of traveling by car. Unfortunately for those with a disability, getting in and out of their vehicle is not their only challenge. Storing the wheelchair in their car becomes an immediate concern.

The Value of a Relationship Approach to Autism
In aiding children with developmental challenges, we must first realize that this requires a team effort and a strengths based approach. It is necessary to not focus on what the child cannot do but look at what the child can accomplish and build upon this.

Important Points on Social Security Disability Claims
It is an unwritten rule and remains a good advice that in case of disability or inability to work, Social Security disability or SSI based on disability claims must be pursued without any delay. This is because most claims can take a while to process.

Experts to Share New Insights on Improving Autism Outcomes
Leading experts on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and child development will discuss new advances in the screening, diagnosis, treatment, education, and family dynamics of autism and associated disorders, at a major conference on Nov. 9-11 at Tyson's Corner, Virginia, outside Washington, D.C.

Autism Speaks Sponsors Bay Area Autism Conference
One-day conference highlights treatment strategies for children with autism spectrum disorders.

Autism and Developmental Disability Treatment Center to Celebrate Opening of New Facility with Open House on April 22, 2006
Horizons Developmental Remediation Center, a provider of premier autism and developmental disability treatment services, will hold an open house for families and professionals at their new facility in Caledonia. The open house will allow families and professionals from the community to explore the new facility, meet the staff, and learn about treatments available at the center. The mission of the Horizons center is to empower parents to achieve great things with their children. Comprehensive services are available, including RDI® consultation services, occupational therapy, speech therapy, tutoring, home consultation, and summer camps.