Elderly Relative Issues

It is a recognised fact that people are now living longer. Financial security in later life is therefore more important than it has ever been.

Independent decisions

Every adult has the right to manage his or her own money and affairs. Sometimes, however, our ability to do this decreases as we grow older. Whether this is caused by illness, disability, an accident or simply old age, there are a number of practical steps which you can take to prepare for this.

Protecting your rights

In addition to the general law, there are specific rights which you may wish to call upon to secure the protection which you or your carers need. This may be the simple process of applying for Carer’s Allowance, securing your right to flexible working hours to help you to look after an elderly relative or appointing someone close to take your decisions if you become incapacitated.  Whatever your needs, we at BSG can help.

You may need guidance on:-

• Estate Planning and how best to construct your Will
• Whether equity release is the right option for you
• Funding arrangements for long term care
• What to do in the event of fraud or abuse

If any of these issues concern you, (or someone close to you), you should consider seeking legal advice.

At BSG we can assist by helping you to put your affairs in order and make your wishes clear. This may involve anything from writing a Will to giving someone Power of Attorney (legal authority to act for you) over your financial affairs, including the recently introduced Lasting Power of Attorney if this is appropriate.

This can ease the burden on relatives or carers who may otherwise find it difficult to make complex decisions on your behalf.

Where there is not enough time to take these precautionary steps, or if a person is already incapacitated (and unable to manage their own financial affairs), it may be the relatives of that person who need advice. In these circumstances there are a number of options available. One of these is to contact the Court of Protection to seek arrangements for managing that person’s financial affairs. We can help by advising you of the best course of action to take.

Local and accessible

As one of the area’s longest established firms of Solicitors, BSG has an enviable reputation and a broad experience of Elderly Client issues and we are proud of the service that our Private Client department can provide. We may also be able to make a home visit if this is what is needed.

Do feel free to call any one of our Private Client Lawyers for a brief chat and you will discover how friendly and practical we are!

"At BSG we believe our service is quality based - clear & simple!"