Being a disability attorney in Melbourne, Florida I get asked this question (or one similar) all the time. Can I still participate in activities which require physical work and still qualify for disability? The simple answer is YES. You are still allowed to attempt physical activities like sports if you currently receive disability. The caveat would be that if you end up being really good and making money professionally by playing gold then you may lose your disability benefits.
Receiving disability payments does not mean that you have to languish and remain inactive. Swinging a golf club isn’t exactly a sign that someone is in peak physical condition. This is why so many older people play golf. If you have a golf cart, basically all you need to do is hop out of the cart and swing a club. It’s not exactly running a marathon.
If you are still medically disabled and play golf you won’t automatically be deemed fit for work. Disabilities come in many forms. There are cognitive disabilities, sleep disorders and other kinds of disability which may allow you to swing a club and still be considered disabled. Even some physical disabilities can prevent you from earning an income but still permit you to swing a golf club.
Make sure to stay hydrated while playing and be sure to ride with a partner in case you become incapacitated. There should always be a safety net if you are out in the weather and playing golf. On a slow day at the course it could be many hours before someone finds you. Make sure to have your phone in your pocket so you can call for help if you become incapacitated. Tell your friends and family where you are in case something goes wrong they know where to look for you.
