Disability benefits in the US, Canada, Europe, etc.

Where are the best places in the world to have Asperger's or a similar disability and related problems such as depression, anxiety, etc.?

Here in the US, the richest country in the history of the world, billionaires pay only 15% income tax, and pay millions of dollars in legal bribes to corrupt politicians to keep their taxes low and further cut already skimpy social services to the poor, elderly, and disabled (because they're so concerned about the national debt, you see). On the other hand, we have "homeless" people dying in the streets of every major city. I have to think many of these unfortunate people are suffering from Asperger's or similar disorders. I fear I may end up one of them. It's only family that's kept me from doing so this long, but now both parents are dead, and I'm wearing out my welcome with the last person who gives a damn about me.

In the US it's extremely difficult to qualify for disability benefits (SSI or SSD), especially for people with Asperger's, and if you do, they pay next to nothing - $674/month in most states. Honestly... that's enough for food and a tent to live (and die) in. Plus, even if you qualify, they apparently keep wanting to take it away... always calling you in for re-evaluation every couple of years or so. At least this is my understanding.

I hear it's even worse in Britain, but considerably better in Canada and some other countries. I would love to hear the specifics of Canada, and how it compares to the US system. Is it easier to qualify for disability benefits if you have Asperger's or a similar disorder? How much are the benefits? Do they vary by province? Which provinces provide the most support to people suffering from Asperger's?

What about other countries? Sweden? Norway? Netherlands? Australia? New Zealand? How difficult is it to qualify, and how much are benefits per month?

Also, which states in the US are best? I understand state and local social programs such as subsidized housing, medical care, etc. vary greatly depending on the state (and sometimes city?). I only have a hunch, but perhaps Massachusetts, Minnesota and Oregon are some of the best? Anyone know?

[redheadaussie]

My nephew was just recently diagnosed with Broad Spectrum Autism...It's the umbrella tag of lumping in many different autistic labels, Asperger's being one of them.

I live in Australia. I can tell you our health system is pretty good for recognising differences in children's behaviours, but come long term..... you are on your own. Our health system is stretched to the limit. We had a new change in Prime Ministers recently and we can only hope she (Julia Gillard) will realise we need a better health system.

I must admit, we are no where near as bad as USA or UK in our public health system. Our hospitals have been upgraded, but staff still overworked.

  We can by choice, opt to have private health insurance. I pay over $175 per fortnight ( two weeks) but still have to pay an excess if I go to hospital. I can give you an example of the difference.
  I had been taken to the ER in a bad way with some weird virus. I was taken to the nearest public hospital (45 minutes away from where I live in semi rural area, no private hospital has ER facilities near me! Go figure!!!!!) After many hours of tests etc, was told I would have to stay in Trauma for at least 3 days. I was amazed! No beds available in the main wards. I was not about to spend 3 days with blaring lights, trauma patients in and out at all hours and a skinny bed and no privacy! I told them I had private health insurance.....I was whisked away quick smart in an ambulance to a private hospital. I spent a week there and it cost me $220 total. I had my own room.
  I am on a low income, disability pension, but I opt to pay that private health insurance no matter what!

  In Australia you will not get disability payments if you have Aspergers. It is not seen as debilitating enough, and a burden on society, or unemployable. I know this as I have a friend who shares my home, who has Asperger's. He tried it. He got refused. I pushed him and he now works for a major international company as an engineer, making 20 times the amount I do a year!

I am on a disability pension for other reasons and yes, they do a review every year and ask you to see a doctor and a psychologist. I guess they don't want to waste taxpayers money!

Hope that helps.