Long-Term Disability for Functional Cognitive Disorder

Are you struggling with memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, or mental fog despite having normal brain scans? Symptoms of Functional Cognitive Disorder are not only inconvenient; they can be disabling. If you’re facing a long-term disability denial, we can help you recover your benefits.

Understanding the Impact of Functional Cognitive Disorder on Work and Disability Claims

Functional Cognitive Disorder (FCD) decimates your ability to concentrate, remember, and process information. Symptoms persist despite the absence of identifiable structural brain damage. For many, they become overwhelming and interfere with daily activities and work performance.

What Is Functional Cognitive Disorder?

Functional Cognitive Disorder is characterized by persistent cognitive complaints. These include memory lapses, trouble focusing, and difficulty processing information.

What sets it apart is that symptoms don’t correspond with the evidence. Unlike Alzheimer’s or traumatic brain injuries, there is no evidence of neurological disease. FCD shows normal results on neuroimaging and basic neurological exams.

Causes may include psychological stress, anxiety, depression, or other functional neurological disorders. Symptoms vary but often include:

• Memory problems (forgetting appointments, misplacing items)
• Trouble concentrating or paying attention
• Feeling mentally “foggy”
• Difficulty with planning and organization

Long-term effects can be severe. Symptoms may persist and disrupt everyday responsibilities or employment.

How FCD Limits Your Ability to Work

Cognitive issues stemming from FCD can make it difficult to perform basic job duties. The impact often depends on the nature of the job:

Office workers may struggle with multitasking, maintaining focus, or remembering project details.

Healthcare professionals may have difficulty keeping track of patient information or protocols.

Manual laborers might forget important safety procedures or tasks, endangering themselves and others.

These functional limitations often lead to reduced productivity, errors, and increased stress. This makes employment unsustainable for some individuals.

RELATED POST: Why Your Doctor Must Document Your Functional Limitations

What Medical Evidence Supports an FCD Disability Claim?

One of the biggest challenges with FCD claims is the lack of objective findings. But comprehensive documentation can still strengthen a claim:

• Neuropsychological evaluations showing deficits in cognitive functioning
• Clinical notes from treating neurologists, psychiatrists, or psychologists
• Cognitive function assessments over time
• Evidence of consistent treatment (e.g., cognitive therapy, psychotherapy)
• Statements from coworkers or supervisors describing cognitive difficulties at work

Consistent medical records and treatment help confirm the claim.

Common Challenges in FCD Disability Claims

Insurance carriers often scrutinize FCD claims due to their subjective nature. Common obstacles include:

• Lack of objective evidence: Normal brain scans or labs cast doubt on the legitimacy of the claim.
• Surveillance or social media monitoring: Carriers try to show the claimant acting “normally” to dispute claims.
• Biased medical reviewers: Insurers may rely on consultants who minimize or dismiss cognitive impairments.

Denials or claim terminations are common even when symptoms are real and disabling.

Hypothetical Case Example: Sarah, a Marketing Manager

Sarah noticed symptoms after a period of intense work-related stress. Despite seeing specialists and normal test results, she continued to struggle. She had difficulty meeting deadlines and remembering key details. Her employer placed her on leave, and she filed for long-term disability benefits.

Her insurance company denied her claim due to “insufficient objective evidence.” With legal help, she appealed the denial. Her appeal included neuropsychological evaluations, detailed physician letters, and affidavits from coworkers. The insurer overturned its denial and she received her benefits.

RELATED POST: Self-Reported Symptom Limitations in Long-Term Disability Claims

How a Long-Term Disability Attorney Can Help

Navigating an LTD claim for Functional Cognitive Disorder is complex. A knowledgeable disability attorney can:

• Collect and organize supportive medical evidence
• Prepare persuasive appeal letters and legal briefs
• Address insurer bias and rebut flawed medical reviews
• Represent clients in ERISA appeals or lawsuits

The Ortiz Law Firm represents people nationwide. We help clients overcome denials and recover the benefits they deserve.

Get Help with Your FCD Disability Claim

If your insurer denies your LTD claim for Functional Cognitive Disorder, don’t give up. We provide nationwide representation and personalized support. We have a proven record of success in LTD appeals and litigation. Call (888) 321-8131 today to take the next step toward getting the benefits you deserve.