A recent report produced by Solicitors for the Elderly and the Centre for Future Studies (CFS) has predicted a looming incapacity crisis in the UK.
The report highlights growing concerns that even though more of us are taking steps to prepare for the loss of mental capacity in relation to our finances, the same preparations are not being made for health and care decisions.
This stark warning is based on independent research conducted by CFS which confirms that there are currently 12.8 million people over the age of 65 who run the risk of developing dementia and consequentially losing mental capacity; however, only 928,000 people have presently registered Health and Welfare Lasting Powers of Attorney with the Office of the Public Guardian.
The report goes further to suggest that the lack of action taken concerning health and care decisions may be strongly linked to the public’s fundamental misunderstanding of who is entitled to act on their behalf. CFS’ research confirms that 65% of people incorrectly believe that their next of kin will be able to make medical decisions on their behalf if they lack capacity.
The truth is if you want your next of kin/family to be able to make these health and care decisions, you need to prepare a Health and Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney. Otherwise, you risk these highly personal and sensitive decisions falling into the hands of strangers.
If you would like to discuss preparing a Lasting Power of Attorney, please click here for our contact details. We would be happy to help.
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