A Division of Rural & Regional Holistic Health Pty Ltd : ACN 159 344 902

Alzheimers / Dementia and the Law

lawyer

Legal issues are usually low on the list of concerns of the family and person who has just been diagnosed with dementia. Yet if not dealt with in the early stages of the disease, legal matters can become an extra burden in what may already be a difficult situation.

Dementia causes a decline in mental abilities to the point where loss of understanding and comprehension are dominant features. This is referred to as loss of mental capacity.

For a Will, Advance Health Directive, Enduring Power of Attorney, or any other legal document to be valid, the person who signed must prove they are capable of understanding what they are doing, ie) that they have mental capacity, (referred to as having testamentary capacity, in the case of making a Will).

The diagnosis of dementia in a person does not automatically mean the person has lost the mental capacity to sign legal documents. As long as the signature is made in a rational or lucid period, the person is said to have the required mental capacity. If there is any doubt, written expert medical evidence is required in support of the signing.

It is therefore very important to address legal matters as soon as the person has been diagnosed with dementia. It is too late to attend these legal matters once dementia has progressed to the point where mental capacity is lost.

Information Source http://www.alzheimersonline.org/alzheimers/law/menu.php



What is Home Care?

To help you live independently in your own home and community for as long as possible,there are many home care products and services available. These range from
assistance with daily chores to personal care, providing meals, transport assistance, respite care for you or your carer, home modifications and social support. You may be eligible to access Government subsidised in home support a Home Care Package or choose to use a private provider.MORE INFORMATION

Overview of Home Care Packages

This video provides an overview of how to access aged care services under a Home Care Package. The video guides you through the the initial screening and assessment process, receiving the outcome of your assessment, researching providers and working out costs and more. LEARN MORE

National Disability Insurance Scheme

The Queensland Government is committed to supporting Queenslanders with disability, families and carers to exercise greater choice and take up opportunities in their communities. If you are a person with a disability and you meet the access requirements.LEARN MORE