Welcome to the New Year albeit a couple of months into 2026!
When everyone was making New Year resolutions, those of us in our latter years also needed to be thinking about protecting ourselves against a time when making sensible decisions might be challenging.
Of course, it’s never too late to address the future so, maybe it is time to re-look at your Will and ensure it is still up to date or, if you haven’t made a Will, then start the process – now!
Another thing to seriously consider is establishing Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPAs). You will need two; one for your financial wellbeing and another for your personal care and welfare.
Members may not want to think about such things but it is essential to choose the right person/people as an executor and/or trustee of your Will and to enact your EPAs if need be. These are important roles and should not be ignored.
In the first instance, many will choose a spouse or partner to manage one’s financial matters in the belief they will have your best interests at heart.
The sticky bit is finding someone else should your husband/partner die before you or be suffering from a mental disorder. People often choose their lawyer or a younger relative as a backup.
For personal care and welfare, your first choice might also be your spouse/partner but if you are on your own you need to be certain the people you choose will follow your wishes. Don’t be bullied into letting someone choose for you.
The best thing is to formulate a ‘living will’ or to write everything down so there are no misconceptions and to ensure all your required needs are met if you are unable to make those decisions yourself.
Consider whether you have a specific idea of where you would want to live if you are no longer able to live in your own home.
Currently EPAs are quite expensive, so shop around for the best price but, regardless, you need these forms of legal protection so that your loved ones won’t need to seek a court order to legally represent your needs.
Make 2026 the year you take the best steps to get all your ducks in a row so future care is covered if needed. In the meantime, enjoy the last of the summer and hopefully, lovely autumn weather.
Warmest, Gayle.