Social Security Disability
Mental Retardation
One of the most common and, in many ways, one of the easiest claims for disability are those involving Mental Retardation. The first step in proving Mental Retardation is most effectively presented with a Standard IQ Test which empirically shows a claimant’s mental disability based on well accepted standards.
An IQ score of 59 or less would normally result in qualifying for disability under the current Regulations termed the “Listing of Impairments.”
Likewise, an IQ score of 60 through 70 may result in qualifying one for disability if it results in significant limitations involving:
- Daily Living
- Social Functioning
- Maintaining Concentration, Persistence Or Pace
- Episodes Of Decompensation Of Extended Duration
- Hospitalization Of Extended Duration
Mental Retardation might also come to play on some cases dealing with mental deterioration such as Alzheimer’s Disease, where an adult person actually had deterioration in their mental acuity and is normally evaluated now under the psychiatric regulations promulgated by the Social Security Administration. It also is an aspect of an Organic Mental Disorder since it is usually caused by injury, stroke or similar condition which would result in a diminished IQ.
The absolute critical element is being able to document and prove a claimant may have had a disorder which prevents them from functioning outside a highly supported living arrangement. Additionally, definite proof that they need the continuation of that arrangement is necessary. This is most common when individuals have to live with another family member because they cannot function alone or in the outside world independently. Some of these people may be very young. Some of these people are quite elderly. Regardless, it is often necessary to illustrate from both a medical and evidentiary point-of-view the “big picture” in order to have a successful Social Security Disability determination based upon Mental Retardation.
For our assistance with your Social Security Disability (SSD) and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claim, please CALL Drummond Disability TODAY at 800-842-0426.