LPA for a parent with early dementia: what’s possible
When a parent is diagnosed with dementia, or begins to show signs of memory problems, families often worry about the future. Who will manage the bills? Who will speak to doctors? A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) can help with both. Many people assume a diagnosis means it is too late. That is not always true.
What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
An LPA is a legal document that lets a person (the “donor”) choose people they trust (the “attorneys”) to make decisions for them. GOV.UK explains that there are two types:
- Property and financial affairs: for things like paying bills, managing bank accounts and selling a home
- Health and welfare: for decisions about daily care, medical treatment and where someone lives
Your parent can make one or both. A health and welfare LPA can only be used once your parent cannot make the decision themselves.
Can someone with dementia make an LPA?
GOV.UK says the person must be 18 or over and have mental capacity when they make the LPA. Capacity means the ability to understand, remember, weigh up and communicate a decision at the time it needs to be made.
Capacity is decision-specific and can change from day to day. A diagnosis of dementia does not, on its own, mean someone lacks capacity. Many people in the early stages can still understand what an LPA is, who they are choosing and why.
The certificate provider
Every LPA needs a certificate provider. This is someone who confirms that the donor understands the LPA and is not being pressured into making it. It can be someone who has known the donor well for at least two years, or a professional such as a doctor or solicitor. Where there are doubts about capacity, some families ask a doctor or another professional to act as certificate provider, or to give an opinion.
Why timing matters
Dementia is usually progressive. The window in which a parent can make an LPA may close over time. If your parent is willing, it is often wise to act sooner rather than later. That said, this should be a calm conversation, not a rushed decision. The LPA must be your parent’s own choice.
How to start the conversation
- choose a quiet time when your parent feels well
- explain that an LPA keeps them in control by letting them choose who helps
- reassure them it can include instructions and preferences
- involve other family members, so no one feels left out
- give them time to think
Choosing attorneys
Your parent chooses the attorneys, not the family. They might pick one person or several. If there are several, they can decide whether the attorneys must act together on all decisions, or can act separately. Replacement attorneys can also be named. Attorneys must act in the donor’s interests and follow the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
Registration and fees
An LPA must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before it can be used. GOV.UK says registration takes around 8 to 10 weeks if there are no mistakes. At the time of writing (October 2026), GOV.UK lists the application fee as £92 for each LPA, with reductions or exemptions available for some people. Fees can change, so check the current amount on GOV.UK’s Lasting Power of Attorney guide before you apply.
What if it is already too late?
If your parent no longer has capacity to make an LPA, the family cannot make one for them. Instead, someone may need to apply to the Court of Protection to become a deputy. A deputy is appointed by the court to make certain decisions for a person who lacks capacity. GOV.UK explains the process in its guide to becoming a deputy. Deputyship is usually slower and involves ongoing supervision, which is why many families prefer an LPA where it is still possible.
What about a Will?
A diagnosis is also a good moment to check whether your parent has an up-to-date Will. The test for capacity to make a Will is different from the test for an LPA. A professional can explain whether your parent can still make or update a Will.
Practical steps for families
- Talk gently with your parent about their wishes.
- Agree who they would like as attorneys.
- Find a suitable certificate provider.
- Complete and register the LPA.
- Keep the registered LPA safe and tell banks and care providers when it is needed.
Where to go from here
Read our guide to Lasting Powers of Attorney, then compare the two types of LPA. If time has passed, our article on what happens when there is no LPA explains the options.
If you would like a professional to help your parent, you can see how we can introduce you to LPA professionals. WillHarbour is an introduction service, not a law firm. We never ask for medical details, and there is no obligation to go ahead.
Frequently asked questions
Can a person with dementia make a Lasting Power of Attorney?
Possibly. They must have mental capacity when they make it. A dementia diagnosis does not automatically mean someone lacks capacity, especially in the early stages.
What happens if my parent can no longer make an LPA?
The family cannot make one for them. Someone may need to apply to the Court of Protection to become a deputy. A professional can explain how this works.
How long does LPA registration take?
GOV.UK says registration with the Office of the Public Guardian takes around 8 to 10 weeks if there are no mistakes in the application.
This article is general information about the law in England and Wales and isn’t legal, tax or financial advice. Rules can change, so check official guidance or speak to a qualified professional about your situation.
