Power of attorney after a dementia diagnosis may still be possible in Welwyn Garden City and Hatfield. A diagnosis does not by itself mean someone has lost the capacity to make a lasting power of attorney. What matters is whether they understand the decision at the time, so the sooner the family acts after a diagnosis, the better.
Many families only think about power of attorney once a diagnosis arrives. It is natural to worry that you have left it too late. You may not have, but it is worth moving with some urgency.
Starling Homecare is an independent, family-run provider regulated by the Care Quality Commission. Our Welwyn Hatfield team supports people living with dementia at home across Welwyn Garden City, Hatfield and the villages around them. This guide is general information, not legal advice.
Is it too late after a diagnosis?
Not necessarily. GOV.UK states that a person must be 18 or over and have mental capacity, the ability to make their own decisions, when they make a lasting power of attorney.
Capacity is about a particular decision at a particular time. Some people in the earlier stages of dementia may still understand what an LPA is and who they want to act for them. If there is any doubt about capacity, it is wise to seek professional advice, for example from a solicitor.
The two types of LPA
GOV.UK describes two types. A health and welfare LPA covers decisions about daily care, medical treatment and where someone lives, and can only be used when the person cannot make their own decisions. A property and financial affairs LPA covers money, bills and property, and can be used as soon as it is registered, with the person's permission.
After a dementia diagnosis, many families make both. The financial LPA can help straight away with bills and paying for care, while the health and welfare LPA is ready for later.
Acting quickly, and carefully
A few practical steps help when time matters.
- Talk with the person soon after the diagnosis, while things feel steadier.
- Agree who they want as attorneys, and who could be the certificate provider.
- Use the online service, which GOV.UK says is usually quicker.
- Check the forms carefully, because mistakes cause delays.
GOV.UK states that registration costs £92 per LPA, or £184 for both, and takes 8 to 10 weeks if there are no mistakes. Reductions and exemptions are available for some people on low incomes or certain benefits. Figures checked on 5 October 2026.
If capacity has already gone
If the person can no longer make an LPA, the family can apply to the Court of Protection to become a deputy. GOV.UK lists an application fee of £432, a further fee if the court decides a hearing is needed, and annual supervision fees once a deputy is appointed.
Deputyship costs more, can take longer, and gives the court more say over who acts. Our guide to deputyship in Hertfordshire explains the process.
How this connects to care at home
Once an LPA is registered, it can help care be arranged with the right person involved from the start. The attorney can talk to us about the care plan and make decisions if the person cannot, and the financial attorney can manage paying for care.
Our dementia and Alzheimer's care page explains how we support people at home, and our guide to dementia care at home in Hatfield looks at local support in more detail.
Common Questions About Power of Attorney After a Dementia Diagnosis
Can someone with dementia make a lasting power of attorney?
It may be possible, particularly in the earlier stages. What matters is whether they have the mental capacity to make the LPA at the time. If there is doubt, seek professional advice.
Which LPA should we make first?
Many families make both at once. The property and financial affairs LPA can be used as soon as it is registered, with permission, while the health and welfare LPA is used only if the person cannot decide.
What if it is already too late?
The family can apply to the Court of Protection to become a deputy. GOV.UK lists an application fee of £432, and the process can take longer than an LPA.
If you are in Welwyn Garden City, Hatfield or the villages nearby and would like to talk through dementia care at home, our Welwyn Hatfield team is on 01707 714 000 or at [email protected]. You can also read more about home care in Welwyn Garden City and Hatfield.
Arranging Care Is Simple
Starting care can feel like a big step. We keep it calm and straightforward, and we are here to guide you from your very first call.
1. Talk to us
Get in touch by phone or request a callback. We will listen, answer your questions and help you understand the options, so you can decide what feels right in your own time.
2. A home visit and initial consultation
We arrange a visit to understand your routines, your home and what matters most to you. Together we agree an initial consultation and shape the support that feels right.
3. Your care begins
A small, familiar team starts your care, arriving at the agreed times and staying involved as your needs change. We remain your trusted adviser throughout.
Whenever you are ready, we are here to help.