stage: 2
Who is financially responsible for someone with dementia? Not who most families assume
No family member is automatically financially responsible for the care costs of a person with dementia in the UK. Each adult bears financial responsibility for their own care. The local authority must carry out a financial assessment and fund care for those who cannot afford it. Family members may manage finances on behalf of the person through a Lasting Power of Attorney but do not become personally liable for fees. Care homes sometimes request that family members sign personal guarantees, but this should be resisted unless independent legal advice has confirmed it is appropriate. Early legal planning, ideally before capacity is lost, is the most effective way to ensure finances are managed appropriately.