There are special rules for those age 50 or older from which you may benefit. These rules may make it easier to get approval of your Social Security disability benefits.
If you have difficulty and limits in your ability to stand or walk, or other medical issues that affect your neck, back, ankles, knees, feet and legs – these may make your eligibility more viable.
Other health issues such as diabetes, heart or lung problems, or arthritis may increase your qualifications for disability benefits. This is especially true if your prior employment has required you to be on your feet, walking or standing, for most of your workday. Even if your previous employment was not considered to be physically challenging, you may still benefit from some of the rules that are reserved for those older than 50 years of age.
If you are over age 55 and have health problems that are stopping you from doing your previous employment, there are more special rules that may apply to you. If your health issues prevent you from doing a moderate level of lifting items more than 20 pounds on a regular basis, your qualification as a disability candidate is improved.
Once you are age 60 and older, the rules for disability are more in your favor. Your disability benefit approval will likely allow you to receive your full Social Security retirement that you would normally receive around age 66, but earlier. Once you reach age 66, you can draw your full retirement benefit for the remainder of your life.