Yahoo News DWP says 461,000 people who have arthritis will be handed free £434
The Department for Work and Pensions says 461,000 people living with arthritis will be handed £434. 461,000 people claim Attendance Allowance for arthritis, receiving up to £434, the DWP figures have shown, amid the Cost of Living crisis.
Arthritis, which typically causes stiffness, swelling, pain and inflammation in a joint, is the most common disabling condition. It accounts for more than one-third (35%) of all the 1.7 million claims for Attendance Allowance.
The NHS explains: "Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in a joint. In the UK, millions of people have arthritis or other, similar conditions that affect the joints. Arthritis affects people of all ages, including children."
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The symptoms you experience will vary depending on the type you have. This is why it's important to have an accurate diagnosis if you have joint pain, tenderness and stiffness, inflammation in and around the joints or restricted movement of the joints.
Other signs could be warm red skin over the affected joint or weakness and muscle wasting. There's no cure for arthritis, but there are many treatments that can help slow it down. Osteoarthritis treatments include lifestyle changes, medicines and surgery.
Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis aims to slow the condition's progress and minimise joint inflammation. This helps prevent joint damage. Treatments include medicine, physiotherapy and surgery, the NHS has gone on to explain.
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested weekly payment to help cover costs of pensioners (aged 66+) who need someone to 'attend' them. You can get it if you have a long-term health condition that means you need help with daily tasks.
This includes sensory disabilities (such as blindness), or learning difficulties. You must have needed help or supervision for at least six consecutive months, or have been told by a medical professional that you have 12 months or less to live.
