Obesity is a problem that afflicts many people in Missouri and across the nation. With it come a variety of health issues that can render a person ill and unable to work. People can get approved for Social Security disability benefits if they are obese, but it is just like any other medical issue, illness or condition in that there are certain requirements that must be met. With the five-step sequential evaluation process, a key point is residual functional capacity (RFC). Understanding how obesity is assessed in this context is imperative when seeking Social Security disability benefits for illness.
Functionality can be hindered when a person is obese. The level of limitation can hinge on myriad factors. That includes the location of the excess weight. People who are obese could have a problem with basic requirements related to exertion such as being able to stand, sit, walk, lift, carry, push and pull. Other functions could be prevented because of the obesity-related limitations like being able to climb, stoop, crouch or maintain balance. This will negatively impact whether the person can do certain jobs or not. In addition, excess fatty tissue in the fingers and hands can keep the person from effective manipulation of objects. Weather could be problematic with heat and humidity being intolerable for them.
Other health issues can arise with obesity. That includes sleep apnea. If a person is suffering from sleep apnea, they could experience drowsiness during the day and not function in a clear mental state. Social functioning can also be troublesome for an obese person. When the assessment is made, the person’s ability to do routine, required things as part of work will be critical. The Social Security Administration will consider the maximum an obese person can do in a normal work day and do so on a consistent basis. That means eight hours a day, five days a week or a work schedule that is its equivalent. Other impairments can be exacerbated if the person is obese. An example is arthritis on joints causing pain and limitations that are worse than they would be if the person had arthritis without being obese.
Those who are suffering from obesity and cannot work should know that their condition could warrant an approval for SSD benefits. However, making a mistake when applying or not providing all the necessary information can result in a denied claim. Having legal assistance from a law firm that is experienced in cases related to clients getting Social Security disability benefits for obesity is crucial.
