Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer’s

World Alzheimer’s Month is an international campaign from Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) that takes place every September.

The 21^st of September also marks World Alzheimer’s Day. The focus of this year’s campaign is to talk about dementia, highlight the warning signs of dementia and to raise awareness of the impact it has on those directly affected and their loved ones.

Each year, ADI complete and publish a report which provides global information on dementia. This year, the report aims to draw attention to the warning signs of dementia in the hope that it will encourage people to seek advice and support. The report will feature first-hand experiences of receiving a diagnosis from people with dementia. You can read more on the ADI website.

What are the warning signs and how to raise awareness?

It is important to note that every person is unique and dementia may affect them in a different way. Symptoms may also vary dependant on the type of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia and some of warning signs are –

• Memory loss
• Difficulty performing familiar tasks
• Disorientation to time and place
• Poor or decreased judgement
• Changes in mood or behaviour

There are a number of ways to get involved with World Alzheimer’s Month including sharing messages on social media alongside hashtags of #KnowDementia and #KnowAlzheimers. You can also attend events or activities organised by your local Alzheimer’s association.

The Legal Implications

A person suffering from dementia can lead a normal life for many years but as the disease progresses, this may lead to difficulty in managing financial affairs.

You may decide to plan ahead and prepare a Lasting Power of Attorney which will allow your chosen attorney/s to step in and manage financial affairs if things become too difficult or in the event that you lose mental capacity.

If you lose mental capacity without having put a Power of Attorney in place, then a Deputyship Order will be required to allow someone to manage your affairs.

To find out more about how capacity is assessed, please read our blog.

Contact Us

If you wish to plan ahead by preparing a Lasting Power of Attorney or are considering applying for a Deputyship Order for someone who lacks mental capacity, our experienced Private Client team is here to help. Call us on 01484 821 500 or email willsandprobate@ramsdens.co.uk