The risk of needing SSDI benefits increases substantially with age, reflecting the growing likelihood of
health issues that can impair one’s ability to work. Individuals are more than twice as likely to qualify for
SSDI benefits at age 50 compared to age 40 and more than twice as likely at age 60 compared to age
50. This increase is due to the higher prevalence of disabling health conditions as people age, including
chronic illnesses and degenerative diseases.

Age-related health issues such as stroke and dementia become more common, and degenerative
diseases like multiple sclerosis or ALS tend to progress and worsen over time. Additionally, the physical
demands of certain jobs can lead to long-term musculoskeletal problems and injuries. As the body ages,
these factors contribute to a higher risk of disability, making SSDI an increasingly important safety net for
older workers who might face these challenges.