Helping Your Parents Create an LPA
Having a conversation with your parents about Lasting Powers of Attorney can feel uncomfortable. But it is one of the most important things you can do to protect them and ensure their wishes are respected.
Why This Matters
If your parents lose mental capacity without an LPA, you will not automatically be able to access their bank accounts, pay their bills, or make healthcare decisions for them. You would need to apply for a Court of Protection Deputyship, which can take 6+ months and cost significantly more.
How to Start the Conversation
Choose the Right Moment
Do not bring it up during a crisis. A calm, private setting works best. Perhaps over a cup of tea or during a regular visit.
Frame It Positively
Emphasise that an LPA is about keeping control, not losing it. It ensures their wishes are respected and the people they trust are in charge.
Mention You Are Doing One Too
If you are creating your own LPA, mention it. This shows it is a normal, responsible thing that adults of all ages do.
Do Not Push Too Hard
If they resist, give them time. You can revisit the conversation later. The important thing is that they feel in control of the decision.
What Your Parents Need to Know
- They stay in control
A Property and Financial Affairs LPA can be used while they still have capacity (with their permission). A Health and Welfare LPA can only be used if they lose capacity.
- They choose who to trust
They decide who becomes their attorney. It could be one or more of their children, a spouse, or a trusted friend.
- They can add preferences and restrictions
They can specify exactly what they want - from how their money should be managed to their wishes about medical treatment.
- It can be cancelled
As long as they have mental capacity, they can revoke (cancel) an LPA at any time.
Involving Siblings
If you have siblings, it is often helpful to discuss this together as a family. Your parents may want to appoint multiple children as joint attorneys, or they may prefer to choose just one person.
Learn more about who can be involved in the LPA process.
You Are Doing the Right Thing
Encouraging your parents to create an LPA is an act of love. It protects them, reduces stress for the whole family, and ensures their wishes are honoured.
Help Your Parents Get Started
Our simple online form makes creating an LPA straightforward. You can even sit with them and help them fill it out.
Start an LPA