SIR: Many older people are missing out because they are not claiming a benefit called Attendance Allowance, although they may be entitled to it.
This is a benefit which can be claimed by some older people who are sick or disabled and need care. You can claim if you need a lot of help with such things as dressing, washing, bathing, or taking medicine.
You might also qualify if you need someone to keep an eye on you in case you hurt yourself, for example, if you are prone to falls or have a serious medical condition. The benefit can be claimed by anyone as it is not based on your income, savings or national insurance contributions.
Counsel and Care, a charity which runs a national advice service for older people, has produced a Fact Sheet which will help you decide if you can claim and then how to make a claim. This is available free by sending a 9in x 6in stamped addressed envelope (31p if possible) to me as below. Alternatively, you can ring our local rate advice line which is 0845 300 7585.
?Robert Eadie
Fact Sheet 3
Counsel and Care
Twyman House
16 Bonny St
London, NW1 9PG
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