Preparing for the Future: Legal and Financial Planning for Dementia Care
Caring for a loved one with dementia involves more than just providing daily support—it requires careful legal and financial planning to ensure their long-term well-being. Addressing these matters early can help reduce stress and uncertainty, ensuring that your loved one’s wishes are respected and their care needs are met.
At U&I Care, we support families through every stage of the dementia journey, providing guidance on both practical care and planning for the future.
Key Legal Steps in Dementia Care
1. Set Up Powers of Attorney
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) ensures that a trusted person can make decisions on behalf of your loved one if they lose mental capacity. There are two types of LPAs:
- Health and Welfare LPA – Covers medical care, daily routines, and life-sustaining treatment.
- Property and Financial Affairs LPA – Manages finances, bills, and property decisions.
Setting these up early avoids complications if legal authority is needed in the future.
2. Create or Update a Will
Ensuring that your loved one’s will is up to date helps avoid disputes and ensures their wishes are legally recognised. Consulting a solicitor can provide clarity and prevent future legal challenges.
3. Understand the Mental Capacity Act
The Mental Capacity Act (2005) outlines how decisions should be made in the best interests of someone who lacks capacity. Understanding this law can help families navigate difficult choices regarding care, finances, and legal matters.
Financial Considerations for Dementia Care
1. Explore Benefits and Allowances
Many families are unaware of the financial support available for dementia care. Your loved one may be eligible for:
- Attendance Allowance – Helps with extra costs for those needing personal care.
- Carer’s Allowance – Supports caregivers providing at least 35 hours of care per week.
- Pension Credit – Provides additional financial support for older individuals with limited income.
Checking eligibility for these benefits can help ease financial burdens.
2. Plan for Care Costs
Dementia care can be costly, so it’s essential to plan ahead. Explore:
- Local authority funding – Assess whether your loved one qualifies for council support.
- NHS Continuing Healthcare – Covers full care costs for individuals with complex medical needs.
- Personal savings and insurance – Consider long-term savings plans or equity release if needed.
A financial advisor specialising in elderly care can provide tailored guidance.
3. Keep Financial Records Organised
Maintaining clear records of income, expenses, and care-related costs helps with budgeting and ensures transparency if financial decisions need to be reviewed. Having everything documented can also assist when applying for benefits or funding.
How U&I Care Supports Families with Planning
At U&I Care, we understand the complexities of dementia care, and we’re here to help you navigate legal and financial planning. Our dedicated team works closely with families to:
- Provide expert guidance on care funding options.
- Support discussions around LPAs and legal arrangements.
- Create personalised care plans that align with financial resources.
Let’s Plan for a Secure Future Together
Preparing for the future is one of the most important steps in dementia care. At U&I Care, we can put you in touch with specialists that can help you.
