The Increase in Dementia Sufferers, and Why It Is Imperative to Have a Lasting Power of Attorney
Posted on 10th August 2024
Understanding the Rise in Dementia Cases
Dementia is a growing concern in England, with the number of sufferers increasing significantly over recent years. On 28 February 2023, 438,213 patients had a recorded diagnosis of dementia, an increase of 6,368 patients since 31 January 2023. In the UK, there are approximately 850,000 people living with dementia, and this number is projected to rise to over 1 million by 2025 and to 2 million by 2050. This alarming increase highlights the urgent need for individuals to plan for the future, ensuring they have a lasting power of attorney (LPA) in place.
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The Impact of Dementia on Decision-Making
Dementia affects various cognitive functions, leading to a decline in memory, reasoning, and the ability to communicate. As the disease progresses, individuals often struggle with making important decisions about their health, finances, and personal welfare. This impairment can have profound implications, not only on the sufferers themselves but also on their families and loved ones.
Why a Lasting Power of Attorney is Crucial?
A lasting power of attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows you to appoint one or more people (attorneys) to help you make decisions or to make decisions on your behalf. Here’s why having an LPA is essential:
Ensures Your Wishes Are Followed
An LPA ensures that your preferences regarding your healthcare, property, and financial affairs are respected, even when you are no longer able to express them.
Prevents Legal Complications
Without an LPA, family members might face complex legal processes to gain the authority to make decisions on your behalf, leading to unnecessary stress and delays.
Provides Peace of Mind
Knowing that trusted individuals will manage your affairs can provide significant peace of mind to both you and your family, ensuring that your best interests are always considered.
Types of Lasting Power of Attorney
There are two types of LPAs:
Health and Welfare LPA
This type of LPA allows your attorney to make decisions about your daily care, medical treatment, and other aspects related to your personal welfare. It can only be used when you are unable to make your own decisions.
Property and Financial Affairs LPA
This LPA covers decisions about your financial matters, such as managing bank accounts, paying bills, and selling property. It can be used both while you still have mental capacity and when you lack it, depending on your preference.
Why choose MG Legal Solicitors?
Transparent fees.
Our solicitors offer their services on a clear fixed-fee or hourly rate, and accept personal injury claims on a no win no fee basis.
We are the experts.
Here at MG Legal, our team of friendly solicitors are fully-qualified and have over thirty years' experience in helping clients just like you.
Regular communication.
When you work with MG Legal, your solicitor will be in regular contact so you have step-by-step updates.
Multiple office locations.
If you are looking to instruct our solicitors, we have offices in Garstang, Longridge, Lancaster and Lytham for your convenience.
The Role of MG Legal
At MG Legal, your local solicitors for Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney, we have been offering a first-class Will drafting, and Lasting Power of Attorney service, helping people secure their future since we opened in 2010. Our team of experienced solicitors in Preston, Lancashire, and Lancaster are dedicated to providing you with comprehensive legal support to ensure that your wishes are protected.
Why Choose MG Legal?
Expertise
With years of experience, we specialise in drafting Wills and setting up LPAs tailored to your specific needs.
Personalised Service
We take the time to understand your circumstances and offer personalised advice to ensure your peace of mind.
Home Visits
Our solicitors offer home visits, upon request.
With the increasing number of dementia sufferers in England, it is more important than ever to plan for the future. Having a lasting power of attorney in place ensures that your wishes are respected and that your loved ones can manage your affairs without facing legal hurdles. At MG Legal, we are here to help you every step of the way, providing expert advice and personalised service to ensure your peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney, all for a very reasonable fixed fee.
By understanding the importance of planning ahead and the critical role of an LPA, you can safeguard your future and ensure that your affairs are managed according to your wishes. Don't wait until it's too late – take action today with MG Legal, your local solicitor.
Contact Us Today:
Or give us a call on 015771 783314 or 01524 581306.
Clear, fixed-fees
Fully-Qualified Solicitors
Tailored Service
Multiple Office Locations
Decades of Experience
Home Visits
Tagged as: Lasting Power of Attorney Solicitors, Solicitors in Lancaster, Solicitors in Preston, Wills
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