Why should I make a Lasting Power of Attorney now?

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Lasting Powers of Attorney are more commonly associated with the elderly, but there is never a bad time for an adult to set an LPA in place.

dementia action week: the importance of an LPA

Why the Conversation Matters Now

Raising awareness during Dementia Action Week is vital, highlighting that dementia affects people of all ages, not just the elderly. Therefore, understanding legal protections like a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) should be established while individuals are healthy, as many consider them only in crises.

The article discusses the advantages of arranging an LPA early, ensuring control over health and finances for the future and emphasises that this proactive step provides lifelong security.

What is the difference between the two types of LPA?

The two different types of LPA are:

Health and Welfare LPA

This allows the appointed Attorney to manage decisions relating to healthcare, housing, sheltered accommodation and all other aspects of daily care, such as eating, washing and clothing.

Property and Financial Affairs LPA

This allows responsibility for matters such as control of bank accounts, sorting bills, receiving benefits or pension payments, and buying or selling a home or handling property issues to be dealt with and managed by the appointed attorney.

What kinds of situations may require prompt use of the rights awarded by a Lasting Power of Attorney?

Sadly, there is an endless list of things that could go wrong which would require someone to intervene with your affairs. We have broken down some of the more common ones below.

Sudden illness or incapacity

We like to think that we will carry on forever as we always have, but unfortunately – sometimes life has other ideas. Some scenarios that may result in loss of capacity (either physical or mental) include:

Stroke, heart attack, coma, etc.
Pregnancy complications
Vehicle collision or other road traffic accidents
Imprisonment or hospitalisation

Worsening of a medical condition

This may include illnesses that can lead to cognitive or physical impairment, such as:

Cancer
Alzheimer’s or Dementia
Psychiatric conditions
Huntington’s disease
Parkinson’s disease
Cystic fibrosis

This list is by no means exhaustive, but it is an illustration of the kinds of conditions which may impact your ability to make financial, welfare and medical decisions. This may not occur immediately upon diagnosis, but it may be needed as the condition develops.

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Splitting responsibilities

The the two types of LPA allows you to have different people manage different aspects of your life if you so wish, although you could have the same attorneys managing both your general health and wellbeing. It is up to you, as long as you have their official consent.

What are the benefits of having a Lasting Power of Attorney?

The benefits of having a Lasting Power of Attorney in place outweigh the risks of not having one, as we never know what might be around the corner. Here are some of those benefits:

Peace of mind – You have one in place should the worst happen
No stress – No need to try to put one together at short notice
Decisions are made by someone you know and trust, which is a relief.
It can be activated immediately if required
No worries about who will handle the paying of bills, etc.

What are the consequences of not having a Lasting Power of Attorney?

On the other hand, there are drawbacks to not having a Lasting Power of Attorney in place. Here are some examples:

You have suddenly lost capacity and no members of your family are authorised to handle your day-to-day affairs
Your long-term condition has deteriorated to a point where you no longer have the capacity to appoint your own Attorneys
Family members don’t automatically have a right to make decisions on your behalf – (The Court of Protection may appoint someone you would not personally choose).
You have applied for your LPA(s) in an emergency and the registration timescale is taking too long, which is causing a delay.

Do I need a Solicitor to handle a Lasting Power of Attorney?

You do not legally require a Solicitor to prepare your Lasting Powers of Attorney, but it is definitely advisable to do so. It will cost more than filling the forms in yourself, but you will have the backup of your Solicitor to ensure that your LPAs are correctly written.

If your affairs are more complex than the average person, you will also have peace of mind that you have had some professional guidance to iron out any potential issues.

How much does a Lasting Power of Attorney cost?

Prices vary between Solicitors, so it is advisable to shop around and find yourself the most suitable price. Here is our full price list for all Wills and Probate services, including Lasting Powers of Attorney.

the manor house Roundhay

Claim 50% off your LPA: Oakwood’s Exclusive Event Details & Booking

This June, Oakwood Solicitors is making essential legal planning more accessible than ever. We are proud to host an exclusive community event at the historic Manor House in Roundhay, Leeds. For two days only, you can secure professional Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) services at a 50% discount.

Don’t leave your future to chance. Appointments are limited and expected to fill up quickly. Secure your appointment today through our booking system before they sell out.

Dates: Thursday 11th June & Friday 12th June 2026
Location: Manor House Care Home, 6 Park Ave, Roundhay, Leeds, LS8 2JH
Parking: On-site parking available, plus additional roadside parking and excellent public transport links nearby.
The Offer: 50% discount on professional LPA legal services.