Is Osteoarthritis a Disability in Canada? – The Must-Know Facts

Wondering if osteoarthritis a disability in Canada? Here’s everything you should know. 

Osteoarthritis is a pervasive and life-altering condition, impacting an astounding 3.9 million Canadians—that's 13.6% of the population! As we collectively age and face the reality of this degenerative joint disease, the question on many people's minds is, "Is osteoarthritis a disability in Canada?" 

In this article, explore the impact of osteoarthritis, delve into the criteria for the Disability Tax Credit in Canada, and how True North Disability Services can be your guiding star in navigating the often-confusing world of disability tax credit applications. 

By shedding light on the unique challenges experienced by those living with osteoarthritis and illuminating the path to support, we hope to empower you to take steps toward the benefits you’re entitled to.  

Keep reading to find out if osteoarthritis a disability in Canada and how we can help you apply for the benefits you deserve. 

Understanding Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, often referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis, is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage at the end of bones gradually breaks down. 

This deterioration leads to painful bone-on-bone friction, inflammation, and loss of joint mobility. It's a progressive condition that can affect any joint in the body, but it most commonly impacts the knees, hips, spine, and hands.

This condition is different from rheumatoid arthritis. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative joint disease, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body's immune system to attack its own joints. This results in inflammation and pain, distinguishing it from the wear-and-tear nature of osteoarthritis.

Common Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

Common symptoms of osteoarthritis include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, loss of flexibility, and crepitus (a cracking or grinding sensation during movement). These symptoms can vary between individuals and often worsen during or after activity.

Osteoarthritis can significantly impact an individual's walking ability, mobility, and flexibility, as the deterioration of joint cartilage leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in affected areas.

The symptoms of this common and degenerative condition range from mild to debilitating. 

Is Osteoarthritis a Disability in Canada?

Yes, osteoarthritis can be a disability in Canada! Especially considering the condition is degenerative (gets worse over time.)

In fact, arthritis it’s one of the leading causes of work disability.

It can be disabling because it may hinder everyday activities. Arthritis may affect your ability to carry out daily activities like walking, doing daily chores, dressing, and standing. Often, those with osteoarthritis deal with significant pain, stiffness, and restricted joint flexibility which may make walking, dressing, and everyday tasks difficult. 

Because of this, there are many possible ways that people suffering from this disease may qualify for the Disability Tax Credit.

When it comes to the Disability Tax Credit, Canadians can get approved under the following categories: walking, feeding, dressing, speaking, searing, elimination, mental functions necessary for everyday life, vision, and life-sustaining therapy. Many of which may be affected by arthritis. 

So, yes, osteoarthritis is considered a disability in Canada. 

When Considering Disability Benefits in Canada Ask Yourself These Questions

If you’re wondering if osteoarthritis is a disability in Canada or if you could qualify for life-changing benefits like Disability Tax Credit – ask yourself these questions: 

• Do you use any mobility assistance like a scooter, wheelchair, or cane? 
• When going for a walk, would you need to stop and take a rest after 100 yards (length of 1 city block)? 
• Do the symptoms of your condition affect you 90% of the time or more?
• Does it take you 3x longer than the average person to dress because of pain or flexibility challenges? 
• Does someone need to help you get dressed? 

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may qualify for the Disability Tax Credit. To know for sure, reach out to us for a consultation. 

What’s The Disability Tax Credit 

If you or a loved one is affected by arthritis and experiences challenges in walking or dressing, you might be entitled to a substantial refund from the Canadian Government. 

The Disability Tax Credit may allow you to retroactively claim for up to the past 10 years, potentially leading to a significant payout of up to $40,000. 

Designed for Canadian taxpayers with a disability, the Disability Tax Credit is a non-refundable tax credit. (Meaning, your refund is based on your taxable income or that of a supporting family member/spouse). The program was designed to provide financial relief for individuals with disabilities and their families.

And it gets better! 

Once an individual is DTC-certified, they may become eligible for a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP). This program offers up to $90,000 in grants and bonds, serving as an exceptional resource for retirement planning.

Interested In The DTC? Let Us Do The Hard Part

True North Disability Services is dedicated to helping Canadians navigate the complex world of Disability Tax Credits and benefits. When you work with DTC experts, you greatly improve your chances of approval and you get to hand off the hard part.  

Our team of experts assists clients in completing applications, gathering supporting documentation, and communicating with the Canada Revenue Agency on your behalf. 

All of this, at no upfront cost. It’s risk-free when apply through us. 

With years of experience in the field, True North Disability Services aims to maximize our clients' disability tax credit returns, providing much-needed, and often life-changing, financial relief. 

To learn more about the Disability Tax Credit, don't hesitate to contact us today! 

Click here to set up a consultation.