How Dementia Awareness Week Can Help You19th May 2014
Within just seven years, more than a million people in the UK will be suffering from the effects of dementia.
There are already 13,000 people in Dorset living with dementia and – as the UK’s population becomes older – this debilitating condition will have an ever great impact on society.
That is why Coles Miller is supporting Dementia Awareness Week which runs until May 24.
There are drugs which will alleviate the symptoms of dementia but at present there is no cure.
All you can do is take medical advice and make sensible preparations such as a power of attorney and a will while your decision-making capacity still remains.
Powers of attorney enable you to nominate a loved one or trusted professional to take health-related, financial and other decisions on your behalf.
Wills and powers of attorney are such important documents that we believe that everyone should have them – regardless of their age.
Both these documents tend to be associated with older people but loss of decision-making capacity can happen suddenly to anyone of any age. Accidents do not discriminate.
Dementia affects all ages. While the risk increases with age, it is important to remember that 17,000 UK sufferers are younger people.
Remember also that dementia does not just affect the individual concerned. The knock-on effects on their immediate family are considerable.
To learn more about how Coles Miller solicitors can help you to take steps to prepare for the onset of dementia, please contact Partner Stuart Bradford.
Stuart is a member of the Southbourne Dementia Friendly Community, part of the Dementia Action Alliance.
Tomorrow (Tuesday May 20) the local group will be holding an open afternoon (1pm-4pm) at Immanuel Church in Southbourne Road, Bournemouth. Visitors will be able to:
- learn about dementia and how simple changes can make a significant improvement to a person’s quality of life
- become a national Dementia Friend to help raise awareness in the community
- share experiences, visit information stands and workshops
- learn how and why greater awareness will help local businesses.
The event will be officially opened by Bournemouth Mayor and Mayoress Cllr Dr Rodney Cooper and Mrs Elaine Cooper. It will also feature a reading by Poet Laureate for Bournemouth James Manlow.
For further details about making preparations to cope with dementia in the family, phone Coles Miller Solicitor Anthony Weber, a Partner at the firm and head of our Wills & Probate Department, on 01202 673011.
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This document is not intended to constitute and should not be used as a substitute for legal advice on any specific matter. No liability for the accuracy of the content of this document, or the consequences of relying on it, is assumed by the author. If you seek further information, please contact Managing Partner Neil Andrews at Coles Miller Solicitors LLP.
