World Alzheimer’s Day – 21 September 2026
21 September 2026 marks World Alzheimer's Day, a global awareness campaign that aims to increase understanding of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. It is also an appropriate time to consider some of the legal issues that may affect those living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.
Alzheimer's disease is one of the most common forms of dementia. Dementia is a broad term used to describe a number of different conditions affecting the brain. Around 57 million people are currently living with dementia worldwide, including approximately 1 million people in the UK. As our population ages, this number is projected to rise to 1.4 million people in the UK by 2040.
With people living longer, the prevalence of dementia continues to increase, making it more likely that many of us will be affected in some way during our lifetime, either personally or through a loved one. Taking time to plan ahead can help ensure that the right protections and arrangements are in place for the future.
Looking Beyond Your Will
When considering future planning, many people immediately think about making a Will. While a Will helps protect your assets after death, it is equally important to consider how your property, finances and personal welfare would be managed during your lifetime if you were no longer able to make decisions for yourself.
This is where a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) can play an important role.
An LPA allows you to appoint one or more trusted individuals to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so in the future. There are two types of LPA:
- Property and Financial Affairs LPA – enables your attorneys to manage matters such as bank accounts, bills, investments and property.
- Health and Welfare LPA – allows your attorneys to make decisions about your care, medical treatment and day-to-day welfare.
You may also choose to give your attorneys authority to make decisions regarding life-sustaining treatment, should the need arise.
Why It Is Important Not to Delay
Many people do not see LPAs as an immediate priority and often intend to arrange them at a later date. However, an LPA can only be made while an individual has the mental capacity to understand and complete the process.
Unfortunately, it is often the case that by the time an LPA becomes urgent, it is too late to put one in place.
For individuals diagnosed with dementia, an LPA can be invaluable. Without one, it may be necessary for a family member or loved one to apply to the Court of Protection to be appointed as a deputy and manage affairs on that person's behalf.
This process can be both costly and time-consuming at what is often an already emotional and challenging time for families. Having an LPA in place can provide reassurance and help reduce uncertainty for both you and your loved ones.
How JCP Solicitors Can Help
At JCP Solicitors, our Lifetime Planning team regularly assists individuals and families in putting the right legal arrangements in place for the future. Whether you are considering making a Lasting Power of Attorney, updating your Will, or planning ahead following a diagnosis, seeking advice at an early stage can help ensure your wishes are protected.
Several members of our Lifetime Planning team are Dementia Friends, having completed training to better understand dementia and the challenges faced by those living with the condition and those who support them.
For more information or guidance, please contact our team at hello@jcpsolicitors.co.uk or call 03333 208644.