We are living through perhaps the most trying time for the country, and even the world, since World War II.
This might sound melodramatic, but the fact is that businesses are closing down in droves, families are kept apart, and crucially – hospital and GP services are running on skeleton staff to free up resources for potential happenings during the Covid-19 situation.
According to a recent Sky News article, deaths at home during the summer and early autumn period usually sit at around 2,200 per week. In 2020, this has ballooned to 2,900 per week in the same timeframe.
Why is this? Well, with surgeries practically closed and routine check-ups, scans, and reviews cancelled, people who would normally have health anomalies picked up on or treatment regimens adjusted are having diagnoses delayed beyond normally acceptable timeframes, or even missed entirely.
Some patients die from the deterioration of a condition, or due to an undiagnosed condition striking them.
Excess summer-early autumn deaths during an average year: 2,200
During the same period in 2020: 2,900
Time is of the essence for conditions like cancer, heart disease, and strokes to name but a few, so it’s very believable that excess deaths at home are significantly higher at home this year when compared to a regular year.
Add onto this the fact that most nursing homes are completely locked away from the outside world and problems escalate amongst those who are elderly, infirm, and suffering long-term health conditions.
Why me, and why now?
It may seem highly unlikely for most people that the worst could happen to them, but have you considered the impact of the above circumstances and the effect it would have on family members and loved ones if the unthinkable did happen?
We would advise that any adult write a Will, but even more so if that adult:
- is married or a Civil Partner
- is cohabiting with a partner
- has separated from their spouse/civil partner
- has children, dependents, or vulnerable dependents
- has lost or cut off contact or has no relationship with members of the family
- owns property or a business
- has savings
- has possessions of worth or desires to pass down
This list isn’t exhaustive, but it’s a good indicator for reasons to hold a Will. Have a good think about what you own and who you would wish it to go to if you were no longer around.
What if I already have a Will?
Even if you already have a Will, it’s wise to keep a check on it to make sure it’s completely up to date. Divorces, new marriages, property acquisitions, deaths in the family, spoiled relationships, etc. can all affect your final wishes, or even nullify them altogether.
If you are ever unsure or know that something in your Will needs adjusting, speak to your solicitor right away to make sure everything is in order.
Further information
We have a comprehensive guide to Wills right here on our website.
Lasting Powers of Attorney:
Help and Advice: LPA Property and Financial
Help and Advice: LPA Health and Welfare
WHAT TO DO NEXT
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We are living through perhaps the most trying time for the country, and even the world, since World War II.
This might sound melodramatic, but the fact is that businesses are closing down i…
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