Is COPD a Disability in Canada?

Over 2 million Canadians live with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This condition causes obstructed airflow from the lungs which may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties, chronic cough, and wheezing. Those living with this inflammatory lung disease often experience mobility limitations that impact their daily lives. This makes you wonder, is CPOD a disability in Canada?

In this article, we will highlight everything you need to know about COPD as a disability and the resources that may be available to those affected by the condition. 

What is COPD? 

COPD, also known as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, is a common condition that affects 300 million people globally. 

This lung disease is degenerative and gets worse over time. Those with the condition may experience progressive damage to the lungs and air pathways which further restricts airflow and worsens COPD symptoms.  

Respiratory diseases like COPD and emphysema can be caused by multiple factors such as genetics, environmental toxin exposure, and lifestyle choices like smoking.

COPD symptoms may include: 

• Shortness of breath (especially during movement)
• Wheezing 
• Tightness in chest
• Chronic cough
• Chronic mucus production
• Chronic fatigue 
• Muscle weakness
• Swelling in lower extremities
• Frequent colds and respiratory infections

There is no cure for COPD, however, there are treatments available including prescription medications and pulmonary rehabilitation therapy which may slow the progression of the disease. 

If COPD worsens, patients may require an oxygen tank to support breathing, and worsening symptoms may cause limited mobility and difficulty in performing normal tasks.

Mobility Limitations Related to COPD

With COPD, breathlessness is exacerbated by exertion, because of this, this condition can affect mobility significantly. 

Walking up stairs or walking while carrying items would cause someone with COPD to feel weak, and breathless. 

The decreased exercise tolerance can limit daily activities and mobility. Muscle loss and swelling of the legs and ankles are also common in COPD.

Is COPD a Disability in Canada? 

Yes, COPD can be recognized as a disability in Canada — but it all depends. 

COPD is categorized into 4 stages:

• Stage 1: Early
• Stage 2: Mild
• Stage 3: Moderate Severe
• Stage 4: Very Severe 

Having a diagnosis does not equate to disability in many cases. For instance, in stage 1 you may not experience any symptoms at all. In this stage, it’s not likely to be recognized as a disablement. 

However, if COPD has progressed into later stages where your life and ability to carry out everyday activities are consistently affected, COPD may then be recognized as a disability. 

During stages 3 and 4, COPD can become significantly disabling. By these advanced stages, lung obstructions can become severe and limit someone’s day-to-day activities. 

When it comes to qualifying for disability support such as the Disability Tax Credit, there are some other factors to keep in mind. 

Considering Disability Benefits in Canada 

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

• When going for a walk, would you need to stop and take a rest after 100 meters (length of 1 city block)? 
• Would taking the 100 meters take you 3x longer or more than the average person because of breathlessness? 
• 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 breathlessness and or weakness? 
• Does someone need to help you get dressed? 
• Do you use any mobility assistance like a scooter, wheelchair, or cane? 

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. 

COPD & Disability Tax Credit

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. Depending on the duration of your condition, you could potentially receive a refund of up to $40,000 from the CRA. 

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.

Depending on the duration of your condition, you could potentially receive a refund of up to $40,000 from the CRA. We help thousands of people every year get the support they deserve. 

We help thousands of people every year get the support they deserve. You can read more on some DTC FAQs here to learn more. 

Summary: Is COPD a Disability in Canada?

COPD is a long-term, progressive lung disease characterized by difficulty breathing due to obstruction or narrowing of the airways, often caused by significant damage to the lungs. COPD may eventually lead to disablement due to its effects on the lungs and the mobility challenges it poses. 

Yes, COPD is a disability in Canada during the later stages of the progressive disease. During stages 3 and 4, COPD can become significantly disabling. By these advanced stages, lung obstructions can become severe and limit someone’s day-to-day activities. 

If you or your loved one live with COPD in Canada and wonder if you may qualify for a significant refund from the Canadian government through the Disability Tax Credit program – reach out to us! 

Click here to set up a consultation.