There may come a time in your life when you have to care for an elderly parent, relative or even a friend. An unexpected turn of events could put you in such a position, but, plans for the unexpected can be put in place. Use the Scouting motto and “be prepared”.
Why should you make an LPA?
There are significant benefits for you and your family in creating Lasting Powers of Attorney for Property and Financial Affairs and Health and Welfare.
Without a Property and Financial Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney, you would not be able to manage bills, payments or fees of the person you are caring for. Should they need to move into a care home, you would not be able to deal with the sale of a property. In such circumstances, you would have no choice but to apply to the Court to be appointed as a “Deputy”. This is more expensive than setting up the LPA in the first instance. Applying to the Court is a difficult procedure which can cause considerable delay. Knowing that Powers of Attorney are in place, provides peace of mind to you and your family. If your relative becomes mentally incapable of managing their affairs having this vital document in place will help you to deal with financial matters.
A Health and Welfare Power of Attorney allows you to set out your medical treatment, care and wishes
Decisions about health care, medical treatment and end of life wishes can be entrusted to loved ones in a Health and Welfare Power of Attorney. This type of LPA ensures control over medical decisions is given to those you trust to make those decisions when capacity is lost.
A Property and Financial Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney makes sure your finances are correctly dealt with on your behalf
By creating Lasting Powers of Attorney, you are reassured that everyone involved is making the appropriate decisions about finances and care. It is vital that the Lasting Powers of Attorney you make are valid and take into account fully personal circumstances, family requirements and individual wishes. Speaking to an experienced LPA solicitor will ensure the LPA’s are set up correctly and in an appropriate manner.
