Lasting power of attorney- health and care decisions

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) for Health and Care Decisions is a legal document that allows someone you trust (your "attorney") to make decisions about your health and personal care if you become unable to make those decisions yourself. This might happen due to illness, an accident, or old age. 

How Does It Work?

1. Choosing an Attorney: You select one or more people you trust to be your attorney. This could be a family member, friend. 

2. Setting Up the LPA: You fill out forms and sign them, along with your chosen attorney. A witness and a certificate provider (someone who confirms you understand what you're doing) also need to sign. The forms are then registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG). 

3. When It Can Be Used: Your attorney can only use the LPA if you lose mental capacity and can no longer make decisions about your health and welfare on your own. 

Medical Treatment Decisions: Jane has advanced Alzheimer's disease and can no longer make informed decisions about her medical treatment. Her son, Mark, is her attorney. Mark uses the LPA to discuss treatment options with doctors and decide on the best course of action for Jane’s health. 

Care Home Arrangements: Robert is diagnosed with a severe brain injury after a car accident and needs long-term care. His wife, Linda, is his attorney. Linda uses the LPA to choose a suitable care home for Robert, ensuring he gets the care he needs in a place where he feels comfortable. 

Daily Living Decisions: Margaret has a stroke and can’t take care of her daily needs. Her friend, Susan, is her attorney. Susan uses the LPA to make decisions about Margaret’s daily routine, such as what she eats, her hygiene care, and social activities, making sure Margaret’s preferences are respected. 

A Lasting Power of Attorney for Health and Care Decisions is a crucial tool for ensuring your health and personal care decisions are handled by someone you trust if you become unable to make those decisions yourself. Setting one up provides peace of mind, knowing your preferences and needs will be respected, and can help avoid potential conflicts and stress for your loved ones.. At DL Wills LLP we can discuss with you who is best to be appointed as your attorney, help you fill in the forms that we draft for you and register them on your behalf. Please note the Office of the Public guardian are currently advising a 20 week lead time on registering new Lasting Powers of Attorney.