With dementia and Alzheimer’s in the news again, people are reminded of the importance of making a Lasting Power of Attorney, or LPA.
There is often confusion among the public about when an LPA can be made, with some believing that it is too late to do so once a diagnosis has been made. That is not the case. In most instances it is possible for those who have been diagnosed with dementia to go on to make a perfectly valid LPA. Indeed it is highly desirable for those suffering from the disease to plan for the future and make suitable arrangements for their affairs.
Whilst this can often be an emotionally difficult process it can save a great deal of distress and expense in the long term. It also enables families to plan for care in order to ensure that the sufferer’s future needs are adequately catered for. A Lasting power of attorney enables a loved one to make important decisions concerning property, finances and welfare on behalf of a person who hast lost mentally capacity when, for instance, they are in the advanced stages of dementia.
An LPA therefore allows a trusted person to take responsibility for making vital decisions and takes such matters out of the hands of strangers who might otherwise become involved. You can name anyone as your attorney provided they are mentally capable and over 18. If you wish you can appoint several attorneys, so that decisions concerning your affairs are reached together.
An attorney must comply with the Mental Capacity Act. This offers protection to the donor of the power and is designed to prevent financial irregularities occurring.
It is simple to make a Lasting Power of Attorney. If you’d like to do so then give us a call.