Who should make decisions about your care if you cannot?
Barely a week goes by without care for the elderly making the headlines. Thankfully, more people than ever before are aware of issues relating to the treatment and care of loved ones who no longer have capacity.
However, it seems that many people remain unaware of the hugely significant role of a Lasting Power of Attorney.
A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document which allows you to authorise someone to make decisions on your behalf on matters such as your property, financial affairs, your health and welfare.
According to The Alzheimer’s Society, there are 850,000 people with dementia in the UK, with numbers set to rise to over 1 million by 2025. 1 in 6 people over the age of 80 have dementia.
In cases of dementia and other types of incapacity, the absence of a valid power of attorney can create unnecessary complications and stress for loved ones who may not be in a position to fund care bills or other expenses themselves.
If you or someone you love would benefit from a Lasting Power of Attorney, it’s essential to get help from a legal representative qualified in this field. Powers of attorney can be contested and additional court fees associated with re-submitting an application that’s not valid can soon rack up – not to mention the stress and unnecessary delay which can ensue if documents are not drawn up by a suitably qualified professional.
For expert advice contact:
In Huddersfield: Linda Heaton or Roy Dunn (Huddersfield) on 01484 483800
In Halifax: Hayley Meskimmon, Heather Nuttall, Kelly Gill or Lauren Allette on 01422 339 600
In Brighouse: Bev Mottram on 01484 710571
Linda Heaton
Lauren Allette
Hayley Meskimmon