At what age should I make an LPA?

Answer

There is no specific age at which it becomes necessary to set up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), but it is wise to consider doing so as soon as you are legally able at eighteen years old.

The most common reason for needing an LPA is age-related dementia, such as Alzheimer’s Disease. However, there are many other situations where an LPA is crucial, such as accidents resulting in serious brain injuries, episodes of severe mental illness, strokes, serious illnesses that incapacitate you, and addictions impairing decision-making.

Setting up an LPA early ensures that your chosen attorneys, who are trusted individuals familiar with your wishes, can act on your behalf if you lose mental capacity. This should be done before any loss of mental capacity, as once that occurs, the decision-making process shifts to the Court of Protection, which can be lengthy, costly, and may not result in the appointment of the person you would have chosen. 

Conditions like early-onset Alzheimer’s, accidents, or sudden illnesses can come without warning at any age, leaving your financial and welfare affairs in limbo if an LPA is not in place. Proactively setting up an LPA provides peace of mind, ensuring that your needs and decisions are handled according to your preferences, even in unexpected situations.