World Alzheimer’s Day: Why planning ahead matters

Today is World Alzheimer’s Day – an opportunity to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, and the impact they can have not only on individuals, but also on families and communities.

A diagnosis of dementia can bring many difficult decisions for families, including conversations about finances, property, care and arrangements for the future.

World Alzheimer’s Day provides an important opportunity to increase understanding, highlight the support available and encourage people to take practical steps to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Planning ahead can make a significant difference. Putting the right legal arrangements in place while you have mental capacity can help ensure that your wishes are known and that the people you trust are able to support you if you are no longer able to make decisions for yourself.

Have you considered making a Will?

A valid Will is one of the most important documents you can put in place to help protect your family and make sure your wishes are followed after your death.

A Will allows you to:

• Reduce uncertainty and potential stress for your loved ones
• Decide who should deal with your estate
• Choose who you would like to inherit your assets
• Appoint guardians for children under the age of 18, where appropriate
• Set out your wishes clearly

If you die without a valid Will, your estate will generally be distributed according to the rules of intestacy. These rules may not reflect your personal wishes or the needs of your family.

Have you considered making a Lasting Power of Attorney?

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to make those decisions yourself in the future.

There are two types of LPA:

Property and Financial Affairs LPA – this allows your chosen attorney to deal with financial matters on your behalf, such as managing bank accounts, paying bills and dealing with property.

Health and Welfare LPA – this allows your attorney to make certain decisions about your care and welfare, such as where you live and, where applicable, decisions about medical treatment.

It is important to put an LPA in place while you still have the mental capacity to make one. Once capacity has been lost, it is generally too late to create an LPA, meaning that family members or others may need to apply to the Court of Protection before they can make certain decisions on your behalf.

Why is planning ahead so important?

None of us can predict what the future may hold. Taking the time to put appropriate legal arrangements in place now can provide greater certainty for you and your family later.

Making a Will and putting Lasting Powers of Attorney in place can help ensure that your wishes are understood and that someone you trust can step in to help when needed.

How can our Wills, Probate & Trusts team help?

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Planning ahead today could make things easier for you and your loved ones in the future. Contact our Doncaster Solicitors on 01302 341414 or fill out our online enquiry form to arrange an appointment and see how we can help you plan for the future.