Originally Posted by LIT LOVE

I would not answer your questions if I didn't think you might have a legitimate claim, btw.

Are you saying those symptoms are a result of your physical impairments? They might be or they could be a result of your depression--or they could be a combination of both.

So, it's been 17 or 18 years since you worked a regular full time workload?

Here's where it gets confusing--if you're claiming a mental impairment, you were able to work the first (approximately) 30 years without an issue. If you were in an accident or had an illness, that would make sense that your function declined. But you've never claimed that, you've just mentioned getting older. (Not that you have or need to reveal your entire medical history online, btw. But, this is why an attorney that has access to your whole file is in a better position to accurately answer your questions.) SS will want to know what changed in your early 40's?

If you played football, were a boxer, or had a brain injury or injuries when you were young, or developed early Alzheimers, (or perhaps you have an undiagnosed disorder that has led to a decrease in cognitive function) than you need to have a Neuropsych evaluation.

Or, was severe depression the main reason for you missing work? That one issue is certainly enough to qualify by. An ALJ will want to see weekly psych appointments and that you've followed all instructions such as taking meds if prescribed.

Since your current Alleged Onset Date is not connected to a significant birthdate, it would sense that there is new medical documentation from that date. Did you perhaps begin seeing a therapist more consistently at that time?