GA Supports Dementia Awareness Week 15 to 21 May 2016
In 2015 it was estimated that some 850,000 people were living with dementia in the UK. Sadly this number is on the rise and it has been indicated that there will be nearly 1 million sufferers by 2021.
Understanding more about dementia and how it affects people is paramount. This does not necessarily mean understanding more about dementia because a loved one has been diagnosed, but understanding it as it affects so many within our local community. Each one of us whether professionally or personally will be touched by someone living with dementia.
This week is Dementia Awareness Week and it aims to highlight the disease, its affects and what can be undertaken to help sufferers.
What is dementia?
The word dementia describes a group of symptoms that may include memory loss, difficulties planning, problem solving or language and, on occasions, changes in mood or behaviour. Dementia occurs when the brain is affected by disease and is not a natural part of aging.
What is GA Solicitors doing?
GA Solicitors is a Dementia Friendly Business. It was awarded this status following the training I provided to the whole firm in 2014 where we discussed its effects, its progression, and the best way to communicate with and understand sufferers.
I am a Dementia Friends Champion and have been for three years. I am an associate in GA’s wills, trusts and probate team so often find that understanding dementia can be very helpful when dealing with clients.
Many might ask what it means to be a Dementia Friendly Business. In short, this means that our staff have been provided with valuable background information on dementia and will have a better understanding of the condition and how to react to clients and loved ones living with dementia.
It of course takes time to adjust to diagnosis, be it yourself or a loved one. After you have had the opportunity to digest the diagnosis perhaps furthest from one’s mind is planning ahead. We can all be like an ostrich and bury our heads in the sand, but the sooner you plan ahead the better. Sadly, as dementia progresses it will become more difficult to plan ahead and therefore making decisions for the future while you are able to, is key.
At GA Solicitors we can offer expert advice in making or updating your Will. We also are able to advise you in making a Lasting Power of Attorney. Making a Lasting Power of Attorney enables you to appoint person(s) you trust to make decisions on your behalf in respect of financial matters and health matters if you lose capacity or the ability to do this.
We offer a fixed fee service for Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney and I strongly advise you plan for the future while you are still able.
Our dedicated, qualified and understanding team will be pleased to meet with you and discuss this further. Many members of our wills, trusts and probate team are also members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners and Solicitors for the Elderly so you know you are in safe hands.
Contact the team today by calling 01752 203500.
Catherine Bailey, Associate