Osteoporosis, work and benefits

Is osteoporosis a disability?

Under the Equality Act 2010, a condition counts as a disability if it has a substantial (more than minor) and long-term (12 months or more) effect on your normal daily activities. The law looks at how you would be without treatment. Osteoporosis on its own may not affect your daily life, but spinal fractures, long-term pain or a fear of falling that limits what you do can mean you are covered.

Reasonable adjustments

If your job involves lifting, bending or a risk of falls, your employer could:

• avoid heavy lifting or provide lifting equipment
• reduce the risk of slips and trips
• allow a phased return after a fracture
• provide a supportive chair or more breaks

Benefits

Osteoporosis is more common in older people, so many people claim Attendance Allowance rather than PIP.

If you are over State Pension age, look at Attendance Allowance instead of PIP. It is for people who need help with personal care or supervision.

If you are under State Pension age, PIP may help if fractures or pain affect activities such as:

• moving around, if pain or fear of falling limits how far you can walk
• washing and bathing, if you need help getting in and out of the bath safely
• dressing, if you cannot bend to reach your feet

Other help

• a personal alarm or telecare from your council can give peace of mind if you live alone
• you may be able to get help with home adaptations, such as grab rails

Free, independent advisers, such as Citizens Advice or a local welfare rights service, can help you check what you can claim and fill in forms.