Hiya Sylvia,
Firstly , i presume that your local CAB is in Saltcoats , if so here are their contact details
HERE If the RA causes you issues that mean you cannot wait that long in a waiting room then try and telephone them and tell them , though it is recommended you attend as they will help with the issues and will know of any other local assistance
You cannot apply for DLA after the age of 65 .
If you have care needs , you can apply for Attendance Allowance, you can receive this if you need help with things like getting dressed or going to the toilet or having someone to look after you so you do not hurt yourself. It could include help outside the home. It does not matter if no one actually gives you this help, as long as you can show you need it.
More Detail
here This link tells you how to claim.
Your state pension and the Pension Credit (Guarantee)should add up to £142.70 per week if you are single. This is may be increased if you have things like ground rent , or mortgage interest.This may be decreased if you have savings or capital.
If you are receiving the Guarantee part of Pension Credit, and you are renting , then all of your rent will should be paid for by Housing Benefit.Similarily your Council Tax should be paid by Council Tax Benefit.Both of these could be reduced if you have non-dependants living there .
If you are getting PC (Guarantee) then you should also qualify for both the Winter fuel payment (£200) and cold weather payments (£25 each time the temperature criteria are met)
Dependant on your energy supplier you might qualify to be on a Social Tariff . eg i am on British Gas warm home scheme and will receive a credit of £130 over the winter . This is due to the RA, and my low income . Different companies will run different schemes.
You will be able to get free prescriptions , travel to hospital , glasses etc as you are over 60 and claiming Pension Credit (Guarantee) see
HEREYou may also be able to get adaptations to your home through Adult Social Services , but i am not sure how this works in Scotland .
Try and get an appointment with the advice centre .
Age UK is another good site , and they run an advice line , although i am not sure how deep they can go into any issues.
Hope this helps .
Rich
"The difference between 'involvement' and 'commitment' is like an eggs-and-ham breakfast: the chicken was 'involved' - the pig was 'committed'."
