Case Study
Last year, Mrs Smith’s life took an unexpected turn when her husband, suffered a massive seizure while they were both working from home. Gain Expert Assessments worked with Mrs Smith to carry out a COP3 assessment that ensured she had the necessary legal rights to help provide the relevant care for her husband.
Background
Last year, Mrs Smith’s life took an unexpected turn when her husband, suffered a massive seizure while they were both working from home. This event led to a series of medical evaluations, culminating in a diagnosis of Frontal Lobe Dementia. At 57 years old, this diagnosis was a shock to the couple who had been married for 30 years and were in the midst of planning their retirement.
Following the diagnosis, Mrs Smith encountered several challenges, particularly concerning the management of her husband’s affairs. With no Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in place, she found herself unable to access his accounts or manage their financial obligations. This left her feeling overwhelmed and unsure of the necessary steps to take.
Seeking assistance
Recognising the need for professional guidance, Mrs Smith reached out to the Alzheimer’s Society for advice. They recommended a solicitor’s firm with expertise in handling legal matters related to dementia and incapacity. The solicitors advised her to pursue a Court of Protection (COP) assessment of capacity and apply for deputyship through the court to gain legal authority over her husband’s affairs.
COP3 assessment
Completing the COP3 assessment proved to be a challenge, as Mrs Smith’s GP service was unable to assist with the process. To overcome this hurdle, the solicitors recommended Gain Expert Assessments, specifically Victoria, to conduct the assessment. Victoria’s expertise and compassionate approach put both Mrs Smith and her husband at ease during the evaluation, ensuring a supportive and smooth process.
Outcomes
With the successful completion of the COP3 assessment and submission to the solicitors, the deputyship application is now underway. While Mrs Smith initially had concerns about the cost of a private assessment, she found the reassurance and efficiency provided by Gain Expert Assessments invaluable.
Continued support
Despite the challenges and changes in her husband’s condition, Mrs Smith remains dedicated to supporting him. She visits him regularly at the care home, providing comfort and companionship even when he may not recognise her.
Conclusion
Navigating a diagnosis of Frontal Lobe Dementia without a Lasting Power of Attorney presented significant challenges for Mrs Smith. However, with the guidance of legal and capacity experts, she was able to navigate the complexities of the legal process and ensure that her husband’s best interests are protected. This case highlights the importance of early legal planning and seeking professional support when facing dementia-related challenges.
Find out more about our COP3 assessments.