For injured workers over age 50, it can be difficult to reenter the workforce with a different occupation. Employees who suffer an injury that causes physical limitations or restrictions may never be able to return to the same job again. It can be much more difficult to adjust to a new position or get the proper training to help you succeed in a new job. Because of the hardships older workers face in returning to the workforce, Social Security has promulgated different rules for individuals who are over age 50.
Generally, the older you are and the more physically demanding your past work was, the easier it may be to meet SSA's rules on disability. However, even if you are over a certain age, to be eligible for Social Security disability benefits you must demonstrate that you are either unable to work or that your disability prevents you from pursuing certain job opportunities.
Even if your doctor tells you your impairments are not "totally disabling," or that you might be able to do less physically demanding work, you may nonetheless qualify for Social Security benefits if your impairments prevent you from performing your past work. If you are over age 50 and have an impairment that prevents you from doing your past work, contact our office for a free consultation.
