Planning for the Future | Supporting Loved Ones on World Alzheimer’s Day

Every year on the 21st of September, people around the globe come together to recognise World Alzheimer’s Day, a vital opportunity to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and support those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

At Hegarty, we regularly meet individuals and families who are navigating the challenges that follow a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or dementia. While such a diagnosis can feel overwhelming, it’s important to remember that many people living with dementia still have the ability (known as “capacity”) to make key decisions about their future. Taking proactive steps early can provide peace of mind and ensure that their wishes are respected.

Planning Ahead with a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)

Managing financial and personal affairs can become increasingly difficult as dementia progresses. A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows trusted family members, friends, or professionals to step in and help when needed.

There are two main types of LPA:

• Property & Financial Affairs LPA – enables chosen attorneys to manage bank accounts, property, pensions, and day-to-day financial matters.
• Health & Welfare LPA – allows attorneys to make decisions about medical treatment, care arrangements, and living situations if the individual is no longer able to make those choices themselves.

By putting an LPA in place while they still have capacity, individuals can take control of who will make decisions on their behalf, rather than leaving those choices to chance.

Making or Updating a Will

Another important step is ensuring that a valid Will is in place. If someone has sufficient capacity, they can set out how their estate should be managed and distributed after their death. This not only provides clarity for loved ones but can also prevent disputes at an already difficult time.

We also advise spouses and partners to review or update their own Wills when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia. Circumstances and priorities often change, and having an up-to-date Will ensures that wishes are respected, and families are supported.

How We Can Help

Our experienced team can:

• Assess whether an individual has the capacity to make a Will or put an LPA in place.
• Guide families through the process of creating or updating LPAs and Wills.
• Provide sensitive, practical advice tailored to each client’s circumstances.
• Offer ongoing support as needs change over time.

We understand that these conversations can be difficult, but planning ahead provides reassurance for both the individual and their loved ones.

Supporting World Alzheimer’s Day

On World Alzheimer’s Day, we stand alongside families, carers, and communities working to raise awareness of dementia. Taking steps now to plan for the future is one of the most practical ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.

If you or someone you care about has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, we are here to help guide you through the legal considerations with sensitivity and clarity.

Get in touch with our team

Contact us today to arrange a confidential discussion about Lasting Powers of Attorney, Wills, or future planning.