Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a collective term that refers to several lung diseases. It causes damage to your lungs over time, blocks airflow, and creates breathing difficulties. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are the two most common medical conditions associated with COPD. More than 24 million people suffer from COPD in the United States, of which only 13 million are reported cases, according to the American Lung Association.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the Blue Book to determine the eligibility of a person’s disabling condition, and whether it is a serious enough condition to be considered as a complete disability. This set of guidelines has been divided into several sections that cover different body functions and systems. Respiratory system disorders are covered in the Blue Book’s third section.
For a disabled person to qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), they have to meet the asset and incomes limits, apart from fulfilling the SSA’s criteria for disability. Unlike Social Security Disability benefits, SSI is a program based on an individual’s needs and is available to people with limited resources. These resources may include cash or money in your bank, real estate, bonds and stocks, and any other asset with a monetary value.
The United States has a great system which does not leave the people who have sustained a disability in their later life to fend for themselves. People who are suffering from diseases such as congestive heart failure, late stage kidney disease and cancer, or even people who have sustained a permanently damaging injury due to aging effect or residual conditions may become eligible for a disability benefit.
