In support of Dementia Action Week; 18 - 24 May

Dementia Action Week is a timely reminder of how important it is to plan ahead with care and compassion. At FMB, many of our team have taken part in Dementia Friends training — an initiative by the Alzheimer’s Society that helps increase understanding of dementia and encourages actions that support people living with the condition. As Financial Planners (and Dementia Friends), we regularly see first-hand the reassurance that comes from knowing your wishes will be respected if life takes an unexpected turn. One of the most valuable ways to achieve this peace of mind is by putting a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in place.

It’s natural to feel hesitant about thinking ahead to a time when you may need support making decisions. But an LPA isn’t about expecting the worst — it’s about protecting your future and easing the burden on the people you care about. Much like home or life insurance, it’s something you hope you’ll never need, but you’ll be incredibly grateful for if you do.

What a Lasting Power of Attorney Does

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you lose the ability to make them yourself — often referred to as “lacking mental capacity”.

There are two types of LPA, each covering different areas of life:

• Property and Financial Affairs - This covers decisions such as paying bills, managing bank accounts, collecting income or benefits or even selling your home if required. It can be used before you lose mental capacity, for example if you are abroad or unwell.
• Health and Welfare - This covers decisions about where you live, your daily care and medical treatment. It can only be used after you have lost mental capacity and must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before it can be used.

Both types ensure that the person acting for you understands your wishes and can make decisions that reflect your values.

Why LPAs Matter — Especially During Dementia Action Week

Dementia can affect anyone, and its progression is often unpredictable. Having an LPA in place means:

• Your wishes are protected, even if you can’t express them later.
• Your loved ones avoid stressful legal processes, such as applying to the Court of Protection for a Deputyship — a costly and lengthy alternative if no LPA exists.
• You stay in control, because you choose who acts for you and what powers they have.
• Your family has clarity, reducing uncertainty at an already emotional time.

For many families, an LPA becomes one of the most reassuring decisions they ever make.

A Thoughtful Step Towards Future Peace of Mind

Nobody likes to imagine losing mental capacity, but planning ahead is an act of kindness — both to yourself and to those who may need to support you in the future. An LPA ensures that if you ever need help, the decisions made on your behalf reflect who you are and what matters most to you.
As Dementia Friends, we’re committed to raising awareness and encouraging conversations that help people feel informed and empowered.

If you’re considering setting up an LPA, we can help by introducing you to a solicitor who specialises in this area and can guide you through the process with sensitivity and expertise, should you need it.

Please note that a Lasting Power of Attorney is not a regulated financial service.