Threat of dementia persuades more people to put their affairs in order

It is understood that an increase in the number of pensioners being diagnosed with dementia and a greater awareness of the condition has encouraged more people to put measures in place for the event they lose mental capacity.

The number of LPAs increased by almost 90 per cent in a two year period, with 510,925 made in 2015.

The rise has been so dramatic that there have been reports that the Office for the Public Guardian, which is responsible for recording LPAs across England and Wales, has struggled to cope with the increased workload.

The body has acknowledged the significant increase in applications but insisted that it was still meeting customer service targets.

The fear of dementia has also prompted many people to make or update wills, giving peace of mind that their wishes will be respected.

Only this week former BBC newsreader Angela Rippon said that she had been persuaded to put her affairs in order in case anything happens “out of the blue.”

“None of us know what’s going to happen to us. But I can do things like make sure my will is up-to-date and put things in place,” said the 71-year-old, who previously lost her mother to Alzheimer’s.

“I can talk with my godchildren about the care I might like. At least they won’t have to agonise over what to do with Auntie Ang, because Auntie Ang will have told them.

For legal advice on drafting or updating a will or arranging Lasting Power of Attorney, please contact Tony Millson and Deanna Hurst in Royds’ Private Client team.