Posts tagged “Lasting Power of Attorney”

Campaigner, Esther Rantzen, continues to raise important matters even as she deals with her own health issues. 
 
She inspired a debate in the Houses of Parliament about medical assistance for people at the end of their life. The debate was in response to a petition signed by over 200,000 people. 
supporting someone at the end of their life is much easier if they have use their wishes known in a living Will.
It’s reassuring to know someone will carry out your wishes if you can’t make important decisions for yourself. 
 
Advances in technology and medicine mean we can look forward to longer and healthier lives. However, many of us know that, as we grow older, we should put plans in place. 
 
If not for our own sake, it will give our friends and family peace of mind. 
 
You can appoint a close relative to be your attorney.
Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) are important if you’re ever in a position where you can’t make decisions for yourself. They allow you to choose people you trust to make decisions about your finances and care on your behalf. 
 
LPAs are a good idea for people of all ages, not just the elderly. However, the process is currently paper-based and slow. 
The government at Westminster has approved a new Act for Lasting Powers of Attorney.
Many people are paying for their nursing home care from their savings or by selling their home. This is despite provision for the NHS to pay for their care. 
 
If you can’t look after yourself at home any longer, your local authority or the NHS should provide your care. If you don’t need nursing care your local authority will carry out an assessment to decide how much you should contribute. Your care will only be fully funded if your assets fall below £23,250. If you need nursing care, the NHS should pay. 
If you're a wheelchair user and need medical care you could qualify for NHS funding