Powers of attorney

• General – This allows someone to deal with all your affairs for an undefined period or until you lose mental capacity. It cannot be used after this
• Specific – This power only relates to specific issues such as the purchase of a house, or to deal with just one bank account. The power ends if you lose mental capacity
• Lasting – These came into force on 1st October 2007 and were designed to replace Enduring Powers of Attorney (although old ones can still be used). There are two types available, the first relates to finances and property and the second to healthcare. These documents can continue to be used even if you have lost mental capacity.

With a growing elderly population and the increase of medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s and dementia, the Lasting Power of Attorney has become increasingly important.

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