7,090 Newcastle pensioners with health issues are receiving AA )- 293 in Kenton, but 5,000 more could be ''missing out'' on this non-means-tested benefit aimed at those aged over 66. Nationally, 1.1m eligible older people are not claiming AA according to recent research by the think tank Policy Into Practice.
AA is a benefit that helps older people with disabilities, illnesses , mental health conditions or long-term health problems who need support with personal care or supervision.
The weekly £72.65 money helps those pensioners to stay independent at home, or for other type of assistance.
Coun Stephen Lambert, Ged Bell and Paula Maines said: “We’ve helped a number of older residents with AA application forms and believe hundreds more in Kenton could be ‘missing out’ with an estimated 5,000 across the city not claiming it. AA is one of the most ‘under-claimed’ benefits in England with 1.1.million missing out on up to £5.2 billion a year according to Policy Into Practice. This is often due to misconceptions around what it is and who qualifies.”
Residents need to be of pensionable age – over 66. Income is irrelevant. AA is not means-tested. Residents need to have a condition that means they need ‘help’ or ‘supervision’ with day -to- day activities including help getting washed, eating, using the toilet and help informing carers that they need to be understood. What many people don’t realise if that they don’t need to actually be receiving this help or supervision. What’s important is that older people may think they need help due to the seriousness of the health condition.
AA is a non-means tested benefit and many pensioners rightly claim it if they have long-term health related conditions. But many don’t in spite of the cost of living crisis. Eligible older people can spend the money however they like such as paying fuel bills, getting meals delivered, covering taxi costs and equipment in the home to enable them to stay independent.
Its important that older people claim AA. They can get help by contacting Age UK, The Search Project, Citizens Advice Newcastle or the council’s welfare rights services.