My father had Parkinson’s and tried to get disability on his own twice and was denied. Went a third time with an attorney and was granted disability. An attorney might be able to help your friends..??..
There are lawyers who make a living getting people approved for disability. Trying to get it without a lawyer or social worker who knows the system takes much effort and usually doesn’t work. Sad but true.
There are some people who know the system, know how it works, and use it to their advantage. There are thousands getting something they call “crazy money” or “crazy payments” - I can’t remember the exact term they use. They claim they are crazy and get disability.