OLDER people who live independently but need help with bathing and dressing are being advised to check their entitlement to home support and financial assistance.
Help the Aged is urging people to check their entitlement to Attendance Allowance as unlike other benefits, it does not depend on National Insurance contributions and is tax free. A successful claim could lead to an increase in entitlement to other benefits like income support.
Attendance allowance is payable to people aged 65 and over who need help with personal care, such as eating, getting up, managing stairs, dressing and bathing, however it does not generally cover household tasks or domestic chores.
SeniorLine manager Elizabeth Lodge said: "There is a lot of confusion about Attendance Allowance and as a result people who could be getting more financial help don't claim it.
"SeniorLine staff can tell people about this and other benefits and discuss their care issues too. It could be well worth making the free telephone call to us."
Fully trained advice workers from the Help the Aged freephone advice service, SeniorLine, are on hand to take calls from people wanting more information. Contact SeniorLine on 0808 800 6565 Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm.
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