It starts with small things. Forgotten appointments, confusion over everyday tasks, repeating the same questions. When a loved one begins to show signs of memory loss, it’s natural to hope it’s just a blip. But if you’ve found yourself saying, “Mum/Dad’s starting to forget things,” it’s time to act — and that means sorting out Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) immediately.
An LPA allows someone (normally close relatives or friends) to legally manage a person’s affairs — from paying bills to making decisions about health and care — if they lose the capacity to do so themselves. Crucially, these documents can only be set up while someone still has mental capacity. Once that’s gone, it’s too late.
We often see families caught out. They wait, unsure whether it’s the right time. But by the time the need becomes urgent, their loved one can no longer legally grant that authority. The result? Court of Protection applications, long delays, stress, and often expensive fees — all when families are already dealing with emotional strain.
Putting LPAs in place is a simple, proactive step that protects everyone. It means that if things get worse, someone trusted is legally able to step in. Without one, even next of kin have no automatic rights to make decisions.
It’s not about assuming the worst — it’s about preparing for the unknown, while your loved one still has a say in how things are handled.
At Lakes Wills, I make the process straightforward, friendly, and tailored to your family’s needs.
So if you’re hearing those early warning signs, don’t wait. Let’s have a chat now — before it’s too late.