Parkinson’s Disease Disability Benefits in Canada
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the body’s nervous system, compromising movement. Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are gradual, often starting with an almost unnoticeable tremor in one hand. It’s arguably the most well-known sign of the disorder, though Parkinson’s can also cause stiffness or slowing of movement.
Besides the hand tremor calling-card, Parkinson’s symptoms can also include:
- Slowed movement (bradykinesia)
- Rigid muscles
- Impaired posture and balance
- Decreased ability to perform automatic movements (blinking, swinging arms while walking)
- Speech changes
- Writing changes
A person with Parkinson’s nerve cells in the brain slowly break down or die. Many Parkinson’s symptoms are due to the loss of those neurons, which produce a chemical messenger in your brain called dopamine. Low levels of dopamine lead to abnormal brain activity, making Parkinson’s a potential risk.
The cause of Parkinson’s disease is still unknown. Two factors that seem to be linked to the disorder include genetics and environmental triggers (exposure to toxins, for example).
Left untreated, Parkinson’s can lead to an array of complications, the most common being:
- Difficulty thinking
- Depression or emotional swings
- Swallowing problems
- Sleep problems / sleep disorders
- Bladder problems
- Constipation
- Blood pressure fluctuation
- Fatigue
How does the Disability Tax Credit Help?
Based on the assortment of complications Parkinson’s can lead to, as well as the challenges presented from the condition itself, the disorder is classified as a disability by the Canadian government. To help offset the costs of extra care or medical treatments, the Canada Revenue Agency provides disability tax benefits like the Canadian Disability Tax Credit for families coping with Parkinson’s.
Despite disability tax refunds readily available for many eligible Canadians, unclaimed disability tax credits are all too common. The DTC application process is notoriously tricky to navigate, pushing people away from even submitting their T2201 form altogether.
How Can the NBA Help?
Having assisted thousands of Canadians in successfully claiming disability credits, The National Benefit Authority is Canada’s largest disability tax service provider. Our experts can help determine your Disability Tax Credit eligibility, and walk you through your Canadian Disability Tax Credit application. Disability Tax Credit amounts vary on a case-by-case basis, but can be upwards of $50,000 per application!
Parkinson’s is a disorder that needs constant attention due to it’s progressive nature – time spent sifting through paperwork and research can be left to someone else. We can guide you through every step towards recovering your Parkinson’s disease disability benefits, ensuring you and your family finds the support you need.
