This week marks Dementia Action Week 2025, a national awareness campaign led by the Alzheimer’s Society. The focus this year is on the importance of early diagnosis – a critical step in helping people with dementia take control of their future, access treatment and support, and make vital legal, financial, and health decisions while they still have capacity.
What is dementia?
Dementia is not a single disease, but rather a group of symptoms caused by various brain disorders. It can affect memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to perform everyday activities.
Currently, more than 900,000 people in the UK are currently living with dementia – a number that is rising. It is a progressive, terminal condition that can have a profound impact on individuals and their families.
Recognising the warning signs
Early detection can make a meaningful difference. Some of the most common early symptoms include:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty concentrating, planning or organising
- Problems with language and communication
- Misunderstanding what is being seen
- Being confused about time or place
- Mood changes or difficulty controlling emotions
The legal considerations
Dementia can gradually erode a person’s ability to make decisions and manage their own affairs. That’s why its so important to plan ahead.
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf in the event that you lose capacity. There are two types of LPA – Health and Welfare and Property and Finances.
If no LPA is in place and a person later loses capacity, family members and / or friends may apply to the Court of Protection for a Deputyship. This is a lengthy process and can often be more expensive than the LPA process.
How we can help
Whether you are planning for the future or already facing decisions due to a recent dementia diagnosis, we are here to help you navigate the legal steps.
If you would like to speak with one of our experienced solicitors, please get in touch at 01484 821 500 to discuss how we can help.
Lets use Dementia Action Week 2025 to raise awareness, take action, and help those affected.
The above article is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any part of the information given.
Furthermore, the information contained is accurate and up to date as of the date of publication. Readers should be aware that legislative frameworks may have been amended since the original date of publication.
