According to an article published by Today’s Wills and Probate, the latest data from the NHS shows that there has been a significant rise in dementia diagnosis cases over the last year, with a record 487,432 individuals in England who received a dementia diagnosis in June.
Early diagnosis is crucial for providing vital support and care for those living with dementia, and although England boasts one of the highest diagnosis rates in the world, there are still concerns about missed NHS diagnoses targets and disparities in early diagnosis and access to services between different postcode areas. Despite some improvements, NHS England has acknowledged there is still work to be done to ensure that everyone receives timely diagnosis and access to the support they need.
An All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on dementia urged the previous Government to significantly enhance scanning capacity and workforce and develop local strategies to improve diagnostic access for all, regardless of their geographic location. It is hoped the new Government will take on board these concerns and deliver solutions to improve service targets and diagnosis rates.
The article also highlighted that recent research from University College London predicts that up to 1.7 million people could be living with dementia by 2040, a 40% increase since previous estimates.
Source: Read the full article here: Record number of dementia diagnoses in England in the past year, NHS reports
Importance of Lasting Powers of Attorney
At Rose & Rose, we see the importance of early diagnosis and support the need for further action and investment from the Government for related services and social care. We also understand that planning for the future is equally critical. One way you can ensure that your interests are protected should you lose the ability to make important decisions is through creating and registering a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).
An LPA is a legally recognised document that allows for a trusted person or persons (known as the attorney or attorneys) to make vital decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity, either through an accident or because of an illness such as dementia. Your chosen attorney could make decisions ranging from healthcare conditions and life-sustaining treatments to financial matters, thereby safeguarding your best interests.
Read our previous articles for more information:
Why Using a Regulated Legal Professional is Crucial in Creating a Lasting Power of Attorney
Millions of Married Couples Are Currently Without a Power of Attorney
Lasting Power of Attorney Solicitors
Our highly experienced private client team has extensive experience in preparing and registering LPAs, helping our clients through every step of the process. To authorise your attorneys to use the LPA, it must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG). To avoid potential rejection during registration, we believe it is crucial to have your LPA professionally prepared. A well-prepared LPA ensures it is not only accepted by the OPG but also recognised by banks and other institutions without any issues.
If you would like more information about making Lasting Power of Attorney, our Lasting Power of Attorney Solicitors in Kingston are here to help. Contact us for a consultation or call 0330 025 0177.
This blog post is not intended to be taken as advice or acted upon. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our team of solicitors.
