Alzheimer’s Research UK

In these uncertain times many of us are looking to ensure our affairs are in order. For some of us it’s because we have been putting it off for so long and we now have more time on our hands. We at Alzheimer’s Research UK would like to offer our free information guide to help you plan for the future by outlining things to consider.

Can I write or update my Will at this time?

Getting out to visit a solicitor’s office can be difficult or a little daunting. This is especially true during these challenging times; however, most solicitors can now support you to make and update your Will.

Some solicitors are arranging to visit clients at their homes, whilst respecting social distancing rules. Alternatively, many are sending copies of Wills to be signed and witnessed, with guidance on how to do this correctly. 

If you or a loved one are affected by dementia, can you still write a Will?

Having dementia doesn’t necessarily mean you’re unable to write a Will. As long as you have ‘testamentary capacity’, you can still make a Will. This means you can understand the effect of making a Will, the nature and value of your assets, and who will receive those assets. Your solicitor may need to get a letter from a doctor to judge capacity. This isn’t something to worry about, rather it’s a way of guaranteeing the validity of your Will so your wishes can be carried out.

Do I need a Lasting Power of Attorney?

If you’re concerned you may get dementia or another condition that affects your ability to make informed decisions, then having welfare and financial Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) in place is the best way to ensure you and your finances are looked after should you be unable to do so. It helps your family, spouse, partner or next of kin make sure you receive the support and care that you may need. You can complete this yourself online or you can ask a solicitor to do this for you.   

It’s worth noting that this usually takes about two months to complete, however this has increased more recently.

Please consider supporting Alzheimer’s Research UK

If you are planning on writing or updating your Will please consider supporting Alzheimer’s Research UK with a gift. These gifts allow us to keep on powering groundbreaking research during challenging times. They’re an incredible gift to the future, whatever the future holds.

Every three minutes someone in the UK develops dementia, which means far too many of us are familiar with the heartbreak it brings. Yet with support from people like you, we will find a way to treat this devastating condition.

One third of our groundbreaking research projects into causes, preventions and a cure for dementia are only made possible because of gifts in Wills. They offer hope to our children, grandchildren and future generations of a world free from the fear, harm and heartbreak of dementia.

Useful resources

At Alzheimer’s Research UK, we have put together some informational videos and factsheets around some of the questions you might have regarding Wills, Powers of Attorney and planning for future care.

Visit our website to find out more about leaving a gift to dementia research, or contact the Gifts in Wills team on 01223 896 606 or giftsinwills@alzheimersresearchuk.org

Registered charity numbers 1077089 and SC042474