Elder law

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Parkinson's awareness week 2007

Practice group: Elderly client legal services

16 April 2007

This year's Awareness Week takes place between 16 April and 22 April 2007 and aims to raise public awareness and lead to a better understanding and interaction with people who suffer with the disease. It is also directed specifically at people who are newly diagnosed.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological condition affecting approximately 120,000 people in the UK. It is a very individual condition, which attacks the part of the brain that controls our movements, it affects activities we take for granted, such as talking, walking, swallowing and writing. Symptoms include repetitive shaking, slowness of movement and muscle stiffness and can develop slowly. Due to the rate at which the condition progress and symptoms such as physical restriction it is essential that the sufferer considers the importance of forward planning for his or hers future in terms of factors such as financial and welfare planning.

Individuals should therefore consider executing an Enduring Power of Attorney whereby one or more Attorneys will be able to manage your finances for you in circumstances where you are not able to yourself. As of 1 October 2007, you will be able to make a Lasting Power of Attorney; in addition to delegating financial decision making, this will enable you to have another person make health and welfare decisions on your behalf within more tightly controlled parameters.

Choosing the right solicitor to help you plan for the future is critical. Sue Normanton, an Associate within the Private client practice at B P Collins, is a respected specialist in her field, advising clients with clear, expert and reliable advice, given in an empathetic and professional way.