The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed the ten health conditions most likely to qualify state pensioners for Attendance Allowance, with arthritis leading the list. According to DWP figures from the end of August 2025, more than 1.7 million older people were receiving the benefit, which helps those of State Pension age with extra costs if they have a disability or a health condition.
Payment rates and frequency
Recipients receive either £76.70 or £114.60 per week, depending on their level of need. The money is issued every four weeks, amounting to £306.40 or £458.40 per payment period.
DWP figures show that more than half a million of the 1.7 million recipients get Attendance Allowance because of arthritis. Specifically, 512,300 people claim for this condition.
Top ten conditions by number of recipients
The full list of conditions supported by DWP Attendance Allowance, based on DWP data, is as follows:
- Arthritis – 512,300
- Dementia – 176,393
- Heart Disease – 130,043
- Respiratory Conditions – 109,714
- Disease Of The Muscles, Bones or Joints – 91,009
- Back Pain – 79,646
- Cerebrovascular Disease – 74,361
- Visual Disorders and Diseases – 51,096
- Parkinson’s – 45,820
- Neurological Conditions – 38,529
Eligibility criteria and application rules
You can claim Attendance Allowance if you have a long-term physical or mental illness or disability, and you have needed help with your personal care (for example, washing and dressing), or supervision to keep you safe, for at least six months before claiming, and you are over State Pension age. There are also certain residence and presence conditions to meet.
If you are terminally ill, there are simpler rules which make it easier to apply. Personal care includes help with things like getting in and out of a chair, bathing and washing, as well as dressing and undressing. Other examples include help with medication and treatment, getting in and out of bed and sleeping, communicating, eating and drinking, using the toilet, seeing (if you need someone to see for you), breathing and walking.
