What to include in your Attendance Allowance application

If your application is turned down, ask an advice agency such as Age UK about whether you should challenge the decision.

Many applications are turned down because people don't mention or aren't clear about how their illness or disability affects their lives. Don't underestimate your needs when filling in the form.

Do any of the following apply to you?

Washing, bathing and looking after your appearance

Do you need help getting in and out of the bath or shower, adjusting shower controls, shaving, putting on skin creams, or washing or drying your hair?

Going to the toilet

Do you need help adjusting your clothes after using the toilet, using the toilet at night, or changing clothes or bedding if you have an accident?

Help with medical treatment

Do you need help identifying your tablets, reading and understanding instructions about taking medication, managing a condition such as diabetes, recognising if your condition deteriorates, or adjusting your hearing aid?

Supervision

Do you need someone to watch over you in case you have a fall or seizure or pass out, in case you lack awareness of danger or could be a danger to yourself or others, or in case you get confused, forgetful or disorientated? Do you need someone to give you medication for angina or asthma attacks, or to help calm you down during a panic attack?

Getting dressed or undressed

Do you need help with fastenings, buttons and shoelaces, or recognising when your clothes are on inside out?

Mealtimes

Do you need any help eating and drinking?

Communicating

Do you need help understanding or hearing people, or being understood by them; answering the phone, or dealing with correspondence?

Getting around indoors

Do you need help navigating stairs, getting up from a chair, getting in and out of bed, or moving safely from room to room?

What should I do next?