DLA: Will rejecting surgery affect my claim?

I'm having to decide whether or not to have surgery for a longstanding and deteriorating spinal problem. Surgery offers the prospect of the better result but with greater risks, than the non-invasive alternative. A critical factor in having surgery is the amount of post-operative care I'll need at home, absence of such care will reduce the likelihood of success of the surgery. I live alone, in my own home, and have no family or anyone else to provide the kind of support I'll need. My GP has said that the NHS can't provide the proper care, for the recommended length of time, and I know that the local authority can't provide it.

If I opt for the lower risk non-invasive option my present limitations might be reduced but certainly won't go away.

I cherish my independence and do what I can; the thought of not being in my own home and being dependent on others terrifies me to an extent I can't adequately describe.

Does anyone know if my DLA application will be rejected simply on the ground that I've rejected the higher risk/best potential benefit treatment option in favour of a less risky treatment that offers less potential benefit?

TIA.

Amasis wrote:

I'm having to decide whether or not to have surgery for a longstanding and deteriorating spinal problem. Surgery offers the prospect of the better result but with greater risks, than the non-invasive alternative. A critical factor in having surgery is the amount of post-operative care I'll need at home, absence of such care will reduce the likelihood of success of the surgery. I live alone, in my own home, and have no family or anyone else to provide the kind of support I'll need. My GP has said that the NHS can't provide the proper care, for the recommended length of time, and I know that the local authority can't provide it.

If I opt for the lower risk non-invasive option my present limitations might be reduced but certainly won't go away.

I cherish my independence and do what I can; the thought of not being in my own home and being dependent on others terrifies me to an extent I can't adequately describe.

Does anyone know if my DLA application will be rejected simply on the ground that I've rejected the higher risk/best potential benefit treatment option in favour of a less risky treatment that offers less potential benefit?

TIA.

AS most treatment carries risk you have a right to look at what can happen if you undergo treatment ...... the application for DLA is based on your needs I have never heard of anyone not getting dla because they turned down treatment because of the risks

I was in a similar position, but when I checked the disability rights handbook there was some mention that if any surgery carried risks then it was reasonable for you to decline.

Thank you for your replies, you've encouraged me. Now to tackle that that form...

P.