Planning for dementia with LPA or Deputyship is an important step after a diagnosis. While this can be an emotional and overwhelming time for you and your loved ones, taking proactive steps now will give you peace of mind and ensure your wishes are respected.

One important aspect to consider is how decisions about your finances, property and care will be managed if you are no longer able to make them yourself. Two key options to explore are Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) and Deputyship.

To help you make an informed decision, here’s an explanation of these options and how they differ:

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)?

An LPA is a legal document that allows you to choose someone you trust (called an Attorney) to make decisions on your behalf if you lose the ability to do so in the future. It empowers you to plan ahead and ensure your preferences are followed.

There are two types of LPAs:

1. Property and Financial Affairs LPA: Manages your finances, such as paying bills, accessing accounts, and selling property.
2. Health and Welfare LPA: Covers decisions about your medical care, treatment, and living arrangements.

An LPA must be set up while you still have the capacity to make decisions, so acting sooner rather than later is important.

What is a Deputyship?

A Deputyship is a court-appointed role where someone is given the authority to make decisions on your behalf after you have lost mental capacity. If no LPA has been set up in advance, your family or loved ones will need to apply to the Court of Protection for a Deputyship.

Unlike an LPA, you won’t have control over who is appointed as your Deputy. The court will decide, and in some cases, a professional or Local Authority may take on this role.

Why an LPA is Often a Better Option

1. Speed

• LPA: The registration process takes 12–15 weeks, allowing decisions to be made relatively quickly.
• Deputyship: The process takes at least 12–15 months, delaying important decisions during this time.

2. Choice of Representative

• LPA: You can personally choose someone you trust to act on your behalf.
• Deputyship: The court decides who will act, which could be someone you wouldn’t have chosen yourself.

3. Scope of Decision-Making

• LPA: Attorneys can manage both Property & Finances and Health & Welfare, giving you more control.
• Deputyship: Deputies usually only manage Property & Finances, with Health & Welfare Deputyships being rare.

4. Supervision

• LPA: Attorneys operate with trust and minimal oversight, though concerns can be investigated.
• Deputyship: Deputies are subject to strict supervision, including submitting annual reports to the Office of the Public Guardian, which can be stressful for them.

Taking Control of Your Future

By setting up an LPA now, you can decide who will manage your affairs and ensure your wishes are respected. This can relieve the burden on your loved ones and prevent delays or uncertainty down the line.

How We Can Help

At Vyman Solicitors, we understand how emotional and complex this process can feel. Our compassionate and experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.

We can assist with:

• Explaining the differences between LPA and Deputyship and helping you decide what’s best for your situation.
• Drafting and registering your LPA to ensure it is legally valid and reflects your wishes.
• Supporting families navigating Deputyship applications if required.

Planning for dementia with LPA or Deputyship allows you to decide how your finances and care will be managed.

Contact us on info@vyman.co.uk or call 020 3926 6987 to discuss your options.

You don’t have to face this journey alone. Let us help you plan for the future with confidence and care.

–

About Vyman Solicitors

Located in North West London, Vyman Solicitors provides a comprehensive range of legal services, including Corporate & Commercial Property Law, Litigation, Residential and Conveyancing Law, Family Law, Private Client and Immigration. Known for its commitment to personalised client support and legal excellence, Vyman is a trusted partner for businesses and individuals alike.

Follow Vyman Solicitors on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.