Around two million people throughout Great Britain are dealing with vision issues or worsening eye conditions. Three out of four people with a visual impairment are aged over 65, while an estimated 8,000 people of working age are registered blind or partially sighted. For adults who lose their sight later on, it can be very distressing as they may feel unable to enjoy activities like driving, sports, reading, and cooking anymore.
However, Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) that may provide assistance. Currently, it supports more than 1.6 million people across Great Britain, according to the Daily Record.
Below, we have compiled all the essential information you need on claiming such a benefit.
Older people claiming Attendance Allowance for sight loss conditions
The latest DWP data indicates that in August 2024, 50,993 people received weekly payments of either £73.90 or £110.40 for a ‘Visual Disorder or Disease’.
This overall figure includes claimants in:
- Scotland: 4,654
- England: 42,934
- Wales: 4,654
- Living Abroad: 149
- Total: 50,993
Eye conditions that affect older adults
Over 45 eye conditions affect adults nationwide. This commonly includes:
- Glaucoma
- Retinitis Pigmentosa
- Retina and optic nerve – other diseases of / type not known
- Diabetic Retinopathy (a condition that can cause vision loss in people with diabetes)
- Cataract
- Myopia (short-sightedness)
- Macular Degeneration – Wet and Dry (also referred to as age-related MD)
If you or someone you know is under State Pension age and has a sight condition, consider applying for PIP or ADP—learn more here. If you or someone you know is over State Pension age and has a sight condition, such as severe myopia, think about claiming Attendance Allowance.
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance provides financial support for additional expenses if you have a physical or mental disability or illness that makes it difficult to care for yourself. It does not address mobility needs and is exclusively accessible to people at or above the State Pension age.
You do not need to have someone caring for you to qualify for the benefit.
Who can make a claim?
Consider applying for Attendance Allowance if you have a disability or illness and require support or supervision during the day or nighttime, even if you’re not currently receiving that assistance.
This might include:
- Help with your personal care – for example, getting dressed, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering and going to the toilet
- Help to stay safe
You should also think about applying if you struggle with personal tasks, such as taking a long time to complete them, experiencing pain, or needing physical assistance like a chair to lean on. Attendance Allowance is not limited to those with a physical disability or illness.
You should also consider claiming if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night and have:
- A mental health condition
- Learning difficulties
- A sensory condition – if you are deaf or blind
How much could I get on Attendance Allowance?
Depending on your care needs caused by your condition, you could receive either £73.90 or £110.40 per week, paid every four weeks, amounting to £296.60 and £441.60 respectively.
You are free to use this money as you wish, which may help you maintain your independence and stay in your own home longer.
This might include:
- Paying for taxis
- Bill paying help
- Cleaning or gardening costs
For more information, head to GOV.UK.