At John Hodge Solicitors, we recognise the importance of raising awareness on World Alzheimer's Day, which took place yesterday, Sunday 21 September 2025. This global awareness day shines a spotlight on dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, encouraging understanding, compassion, and forward planning for individuals and families affected.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, accounting for around 60 to 70% of cases, causing memory loss, confusion, communication difficulties, changes in behaviour, and a gradual loss of independence (World Health Organisation). While there is no cure, early diagnosis and access to support services can help maintain quality of life and give families time to plan (Alzheimer’s Society UK).
Planning Ahead
A dementia diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but legal and financial planning offers peace of mind. At John Hodge Solicitors, our Private Client team can help with:
- Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA): Appointing someone you trust to make decisions about your health, welfare, and finances if you become unable to do so yourself.
- Wills and Estate Planning: Ensuring your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are provided for.
- Court of Protection Applications: Assisting families where an LPA is not already in place.
- Care Fee Planning: Helping you understand and plan for the potential costs of care.
- Support for Attorneys and Deputies: We can help you understand what it means to be an attorney or deputy, including your duties to act in the best interests of the person you are helping, how to make decisions on their behalf, and how to keep proper records.
Several members of our Private Client team are also accredited by the Association of Lifetime Lawyers, recognised specialists in supporting older and vulnerable clients with sensitive and complex matters. This gives you the reassurance that you are receiving expert advice tailored to your circumstances.
Local Support in North Somerset
In addition to legal advice, there are many excellent services supporting people with dementia and their carers locally:
- Alzheimer’s Society North Somerset Dementia Support Service: practical advice and tailored guidance.
- North Somerset Memory Assessment Service: referral via GPs for diagnosis and support.
- Alive Activities Meeting Centres (Portishead & Nailsea): activities and social support for people with dementia and carers.
- Age UK Somerset - Memory Connections: weekly groups offering cognitive stimulation and carer workshops.
- Dementia Wrap Around Care Team (DWACT): urgent 24/7 support to avoid hospital admission.
- Community Connect (North Somerset Council): social activities and help accessing services.
- Right at Home North Somerset: dementia home care, respite care and 24‑hour support.
- Motive8 (Alzheimer’s Society): group activities and social events.
These local services, alongside support from friends and family, can make a significant difference to daily life.
Join us in Raising Awareness
It is important to stand together to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and support those living with dementia and their families. Knowledge and preparation empower families to face the challenges of Alzheimer’s with greater confidence.
If you or a loved one would benefit from advice on future planning, our team is here to help.
Get in Touch
If you would like to discuss how we can support you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of legal experts at John Hodge Solicitors, conveniently located throughout the South West, with offices in Bridgwater, Bristol, Clevedon, Wedmore, Weston-super-Mare and Yatton.
You can contact us either:
- by email
- via our website
- by calling us on 0800 097 8611
Emma Radford-Shayler
Sara Anthony
David Satchell
Harry McCarthy
Isabel Harding-James
Kiranjeet Gharyal