This week, from 19th – 25th May 2025, was Dementia Action Week – highlighting the need for better understanding, support, and care for those living with dementia and their families. So, what better time than to start thinking about those all-important documents?
It can change lives
Dementia is a devastating condition. It can gradually distance our loved ones from us, altering their personalities and memories in ways that are painful to witness.
It can also change lives really quickly and have a wider impact on how those living with the disease can carry out daily tasks like paying bills or going shopping. However, it is important to know that without the right paperwork in place, you may not be able to have help from your family member or loved one to do these things on your behalf – and it is important you take action now.
Lasting Powers of Attorney
A key document to think about is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). An LPA allows someone you trust – usually a family member or close friend – to make decisions on your behalf if you’re ever unable to do so yourself, whether because of mental or physical incapacity.
Your chosen 'attorney' can step in to help with things like paying bills, managing your bank account, or making decisions about your medical treatment, always acting in your best interests and according to your wishes.
Without an LPA in place, your loved ones would have to apply to the Court of Protection to be able to manage things for you – a process that can be expensive, stressful and take many months.
However, you must sign and date an LPA while you are of sound mind – otherwise it could be invalid.
What happens if you don’t have the right paperwork in place?
Without an LPA, no one automatically has the legal right to make decisions for you – not even your closest family. Remember, there is no such thing as “next of kin” despite the commonly-circulated myth – so it could mean simple but vital things, like paying your rent, mortgage or utility bills, become impossible. It might also mean decisions about your medical treatment or care are made without clear guidance about what you would have wanted.
Putting an LPA in place while you are still healthy gives you peace of mind. It means you stay in control by setting out your wishes in advance – and it makes things so much easier and clearer for the people who care about you.
At the same time, it’s also worth making sure your will is up to date, so that your wishes are respected when the time comes.
Need more advice?
Downs Solicitors can help draft a will or a Lasting Power of Attorney, as well as revisit and update any existing paperwork.
Contact us to see how we can help.
Contact Katie Carter
