Attendance Allowance for stroke recovery
A stroke can leave you with weakness on one side, problems with speech, fatigue and balance issues. If you're over State Pension age and need help because of a stroke — even months or years later — you can claim Attendance Allowance.
How stroke recovery can qualify you
To get Attendance Allowance you need to show that your stroke recovery causes you to need help with personal care, supervision, or both — not just that you have the diagnosis. The DWP cares about the effect the condition has on your day-to-day life.
For people with stroke recovery, the kinds of needs that often qualify include:
- Help with washing, dressing or bathing because of weakness on one side
- Help cutting food, opening packets, or holding a cup safely
- Supervision because of falls, dizziness or fatigue
- Help with communication — explaining things at appointments, on the phone, or with neighbours
- Help at night with the toilet, turning over, or because of disturbed sleep
Real-world examples we'd write on the form
The AA1 form rewards detail. A claim that just says "I have stroke recovery" will be turned down. A claim that describes the practical impact — what goes wrong, how often, who helps — gets paid. Here are the kinds of things we'd put down for someone with stroke recovery:
- 'My left arm is very weak since the stroke. My daughter comes round every morning to help me wash and dress — it takes us about 40 minutes.'
- 'I can't open jars, tins or medication blister packs. My neighbour does the lot for me twice a week.'
- 'I get fatigued by lunchtime and have to sit down. If I push through I get dizzy and have nearly fallen twice on the stairs.'
- 'My speech is slurred and I can't follow phone conversations. My son handles all my appointments and bills.'
We do this part for you — most people find it hard to write about their own struggles, and our team know exactly what the DWP is looking for.
Start your claim
Pop your details below and we'll call you back to talk through your situation. If you don't qualify, we'll tell you straight away — no time wasted.