Age is one vocational factor
SSA generally describes ages 50–54 as closely approaching advanced age and age 55 or older as advanced age. The agency does not use age alone and states that age categories should not be applied mechanically in borderline situations.
Medical limitations still come first
The evidence must establish a medically determinable impairment and its functional limits. SSA considers vocational factors later in the sequential process when it must decide whether the applicant can adjust to other work.
Past work and transferable skills matter
SSA generally considers work performed within the five years before it decides the claim, provided the work was substantial gainful activity and lasted long enough to learn. It compares the physical and mental demands of relevant past work with the person’s residual functional capacity, then considers education and transferable skills when deciding whether the person can adjust to other work.
Work-credit rules still apply to SSDI
Older applicants must also meet insured-status requirements. Review the Social Security earnings record and date last insured rather than assuming age or years in the workforce are enough.