Last week the Scottish Government published the Strategic Framework for Action on Palliative Care and pledged that palliative care will be available to every Scot, regardless of the patient’s age, diagnosis or postcode. The Scottish Government has invested £3.5 million in this policy and have set out their plans for the next 5 years.
The Framework also aims to create a more open discussion around death, dying and bereavement.
With a continuously ageing population, the need for end of life support has never been greater. In 2014 there were an estimated 910 people aged 100 or older. This is a 78% increase in the number of centenarians in 2004. Life expectancy in Scotland has risen to 76.8 for men and 80.9 for women.
Praise for New Health Policy
The publication of the framework was met with widespread praise from charities and health organisations.
Richard Meade, the Head of Policy and Public Affairs at Marie Curie said, “Marie Curie welcomes the publication of the Strategic Framework for Action on Palliative and End of Life Care and its commitment to ensure that everyone in Scotland has access to palliative care when they need it. We now look forward to working with the Scottish Government, NHS Boards, Local Authorities and other partners to deliver on this ambition.”
Legal Support for Older People
As we all live longer, we want to live full and active lives for as long as possible. However, many people are concerned about want will happen if they become unable to look after themselves in the future. Some people worry about what will happen to their property once they die and what will be left for their family and friends to inherit. It can be difficult to talk about these highly personal matters with our families as we don’t want to upset the people we love. However, taking time to discuss these matters now can make the future clearer and make any situation where you need care easier to deal with.
Power of Attorney
A Power of Attorney gives someone of your choosing the ability to sign documents on your behalf and make decisions about matters regarding your finances and care. This is a relatively straightforward process. If you do not have a Power of Attorney in place and you need someone to carry out a legal transaction on your behalf, e.g. sell your home to pay for your care, then you might need to seek a Guardianship Order or Intervention Order which can be much more expensive and difficult to attain. Having a Power of Attorney in place can make a difficult time much easier on you and your family.
Writing a Will
Writing a Will allows you to state what you want to happen to your property once you die, in accordance with succession law. You could set up a trust to benefit younger family members, leave a possession to a particular person or give money to a charity that has meant a lot to you. None of this is possible without a will.
Family Lawyers Glasgow
Family Law Glasgow are friendly and trusted lawyers who provide legal support to elderly people.
If you would like to know more about how our team can help you, please call us on 0141 413 0527 or contact us online.
