Alzheimer’s set to affect 1 in 3 people

New research has been published by Alzheimer’s UK estimating that one in three people will now develop dementia, the most common form being Alzheimer’s disease. Dementia results in the loss of brain cells. Alzheimer’s UK state that the biggest risk factor for developing dementia is age and with people living longer than ever, the numbers are set to rise.

Early-onset Alzheimer’s affects people under 65 so it is not always the elderly who develop the disease.

It is essential to make arrangements while you are well in case you are affected by dementia in the future. You can appoint up to four people who you know and trust to act as your attorneys. There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney and you can make either or both types:

–    An LPA for Property & Financial Affairs enables attorneys to run your bank accounts, manage your savings and investments, sell your property and pay your bills.

–    An LPA for Health & Welfare enables attorneys to make decisions about your care, medical treatment, where you should live and your daily routine.

A Lasting Power of Attorney does not have to be used immediately and you can run your own affairs and make your own decisions for as long as possible. It is simply stored in a safe place in case it is needed in the future.

If you do not make a Lasting Power of Attorney then sadly develop dementia or lose your capacity in some other way, the Court of Protection can appoint a deputy to manage your affairs. This will be a person chosen by the Court not by you. The deputy must complete annual returns and pay an annual fee from your funds to the Court.

At Bretherton Law we can prepare Lasting Powers of Attorney and deal with all aspects of deputy applications. Arrange an appointment with us on 01727 869293 to ensure that people you trust will manage your affairs if you are unable to do so yourself.

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