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Legal issues

Planning ahead

Sometimes it is difficult to plan ahead, make a will or grant a power of attorney; however it is important to consider these issues. Once arrangements are made, you and your carer may have a greater sense of security and peace of mind about the future.

Read more: Planning ahead

Power of attorney

A power of attorney is a document that gives a person nominated by you the power to act on your behalf, subject to any conditions or limitations stated in the document. An enduring power of attorney is a document that allows you to delegate the management of your affairs to your attorney even if you become mentally incapacitated and are no longer able to understand the implications of the document. These are issues that you may wish to consider when planning for your future.

Read more: Power of attorney

Guardians and administrators

Each state and territory has a Guardianship Board or Tribunal, or a similar body, with the power to appoint a guardian or administrator for adults who are unable to make decisions for themselves.

Read more: Guardians and administrators

Legal issues for people with dementia

As dementia progresses, a person’s ability to make legal and financial decisions decreases. In the later stages, when people with dementia are no longer capable of making decisions, carers, family, friends or a legally appointed person or organisation may take over their responsibilities.

Read more: Legal issues for people with dementia

Rights and responsibilities

All service providers have to meet standards in the way they deliver services and how they treat you. They also have a responsibility to make sure that you know what your rights are.

Read more: Rights and responsibilities
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This page was last updated on: 06 July 2011