Dementia has recently become a highly discussed topic and it is often portrayed in a negative light. However, a recent report has followed a woman who has been documenting her father’s day to day life living with dementia through social media. She does this by frequently posting images and videos of his most precious moments. Her aim has been to dispel the myth that a diagnosis of dementia means the end of your ability to live well.
At Ramsdens Solicitors, we recognise that people can and do live well with dementia and a diagnosis does not necessarily mean that you are unable to put your legal affairs in order. Living with the disease highlights the importance of putting provisions in place and protecting your loved ones.
Through Lasting Powers of Attorney you can control and determine who deals with your Property and Financial affairs and Health and Welfare issues. A Lasting Power of Attorney allows you to appoint the people that you trust to act as Attorneys enabling them to manage your affairs on your behalf should you become unable to do so; perhaps as a result of a loss of mental capacity. Without having an LPA in place, your loved ones may face a lengthy and costly application to the Court of Protection to be appointed as Deputies.
Writing a Will determines how your Estate is distributed after you die. Without a Will, your Estate may pass to people who you do not wish to inherit and equally it may not benefit people you want to take care of. Your Will also enables you to express other wishes such as funeral arrangements, guardianship of children and who will take care of your pets!
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia and you want to discuss putting your legal affairs in order, then please contact our highly experienced Private Client team today on 01484 821 500, text LAW to 67777 or email willsandprobate@ramsdens.co.uk.