What do I do if I've had a Dementia diagnosis?

Wills & Probate

Alzheimer's Research UK estimates that almost 950,000 people are living with dementia in the UK and that one in six people aged 80 and over are at risk of developing dementia. With such high numbers, it is highly likely that every one of us will either be affected by dementia directly or have a family member who is affected.

A dementia diagnosis can be devastating and it can take time to accept the situation. However, a few matters should be dealt with urgently once a diagnosis is received. These include:-

1. Ensuring that all your papers are in order and that a family member or other trusted person knows where to find everything. It might be helpful to make a list of your assets and deposit it somewhere safe - perhaps with your solicitor.

2. Reviewing your Will to make sure it continues to reflect your wishes.

3. Lasting Powers of Attorney should be put in place as soon as possible because once you lose capacity, it is impossible to make one. These documents will appoint someone you know and trust to make decisions for you when you can no longer make such decisions for yourself. Such documents are invaluable because they will enable your bills to be paid, your investments to be managed, your house to be sold, etc., and enable someone to have a say in your health and care needs.

4. You may wish to consider if you need to move assets into or out of joint ownership with your spouse (if you are married) for both ease of administration as well as protection from nursing home fee assessment.

Seeking specialist professional advice at an early stage can help get everything in place to ensure you and your family remain safe. At Wyeth & Paul Law Associates we have a dedicated team that specialise in Wills and Probate.