An LPA, or Lasting Power of Attorney, is an important document that allows people to nominate a trusted friend or relative to make decisions for them, should they lose capacity to do so themselves.
There are two types of LPA: one covering finances and property, and another covering health and welfare. Let’s take a look at the latter and why this document could be vitally important.
Who needs an LPA?
It’s sensible for everyone to arrange an LPA. It’s simply a matter of appointing a nominee who would be able to make decisions for you in the event that you can no longer do so – usually due to medical conditions such as dementia, or being in a coma. Your appointee can make decisions that fit you best as an individual – rather than all the decisions being made by professionals involved in your care.
It is very straightforward to arrange an LPA online, thanks to specialists such as https://powerofattorneyonline.co.uk/blog/what-is-a-health-welfare-lpa/.
What is covered by the Health and Welfare LPA?
Unlike the LPA for property and finances, the Health and Welfare LPA specifically relates to matters surrounding a person’s health, medication, care and diet.
By signing this document and nominating a trusted relative, they are able to make the decisions on your behalf if you cannot do so.
When does the LPA come into effect?
An LPA for Health and Welfare is only applicable if and when the person loses capacity to make and communicate decisions for themselves, and not before.