There are various ways in which relatives and friends can be appointed to manage your affairs in these circumstances.

We at Roskell Davies offer the services of practitioners with many years experience of assisting elderly clients (and their families) in the efficient management of their affairs and in particular sheltering assets. The law in this area is complex and frequently misunderstood.

In addition to an in-depth knowledge of the law, practitioners who regularly advise the elderly need to display qualities of patience and tact. It is especially important to reassure elderly clients that you are 'on their side' and have a complete understanding of their worries and preoccupations.

Very often it is not possible for elderly people to visit the office. We will happily make home visits if requested.

Great care needs to be taken in explaining things to elderly clients (and to their families). We are experienced in this. Our advice is always confirmed in writing.

Some elderly people, due to infirmity of mind or body, need to be cared for either at home or in a residential establishment, e.g. a residential care home or a nursing home. Demographically people are living to a much greater age. As a result increasing numbers of the very elderly need care of some sort.

We are skilled in advising clients (and their families) as to the meaning and effect of the complex care regulations. We help to remove concerns as to how the costs of care can be provided for. In our experience it is best to seek specialist advice on these matters well before care is actually needed. For this reason these issues are always addressed by Roskell Davies as part of general estate planning advice.

A skilled practitioner can put strategies in place to protect family wealth against care costs. Whilst it is undoubtedly very much more difficult to protect assets if planning is left to the last minute, even then certain steps can be taken and we will be happy to advise.

In our experience the complex care regulations are sometimes misinterpreted or misunderstood by various bodies, including those working for the National Health Service and in Social Services Departments. It is not uncommon for inappropriate financial assessments to be raised. It is highly advisable that professional advice is sought whenever an elderly relative is about to be discharged from hospital into residential care.

We will provide guidance and assistance as to the selection of suitable care assistance. We will vet contracts to be entered into with residential care homes or with a caring agency.

Call or email for more information.