Most of us will know someone who has been affected by a condition that alters brain function, often leading to memory loss and a reduction in mental capacity.  For many people, this will be due to dementia.  The Alzheimer’s Society confirm that there will be over 1 million people with dementia in the UK by 2025 and currently 1 in 6 people over the age of 80 have dementia.

It is essential that family and friends are made aware of the problems that may arise with decision making. The earlier these matters can be discussed, the more time there is to talk to your loved one about their wishes, help them to make arrangements and plan for their future.

It may be a difficult or uncomfortable subject to approach but knowing a person’s wishes can be invaluable when decisions are being made.

It is important to find out if they have made Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) for Property & Financial Affairs and Health & Welfare.  If either of these legal documents is in place then the attorney(s) will have legal authority to deal with most of the decisions that may be required.

If LPAs are not already in place, then it is important to consider whether the person has the mental capacity to make them now and, if so, do they want to.  For more information on putting LPAs in place click here.

If the individual no longer has capacity to make decisions for themselves, or has lost capacity suddenly and possibly permanently, then the situation is very different (read more).