Legal Updates

DEMENTIA SUFFERERS

25/09/2009

DEMENTIA SUFFERERS SHOULD MAKE A WILL

The South Warwickshire branch of Alzheimer’s Society is hosting a series of ‘legacy’ events to encourage their supporters to remember the charity in their wills.
Alzheimer’s Society, the UK’s leading care and research charity for people with dementia, their families and carers, say there are almost 6,000 people living with dementia in Warwickshire.
Sian Evans, the society’s regional external affairs manager, said there were more than 100 different types of dementia, of which Alzheimer’s was the most common, affecting more than 60 per cent of those diagnosed.
The symptoms of dementia – which is a terminal condition - include memory loss, confusion and problems with speech and understanding.
Donna Bothamley, who heads the wills & probate department at Leamington solicitors Blythe Liggins and attended the local legacy event to answer questions from attendees, said it was important that people with dementia got their affairs in order while they were able to do so.
“They should make a will to safeguard their assets in the event of their death,” said Mrs Bothamley. “They should also consider appointing one or more people as attorneys who will be able to manage their finances and make welfare decisions on their behalf, in case they become no longer able to do so for themselves.
“Anyone needing help with preparing documents or applying to the court - or corresponding with the local authority or primary care trust if there are problems with funding assessments - can make an appointment for a free half-hour consultation with Blythe Liggins,” said Mrs Bothamley, who can be reached on 01926 831231.
Alzheimer’s Society supports people living with dementia and their carers in Warwickshire through a wide range of services including information and advice, support groups, respite and group activities such as Singing for the Brain.