What Is a Dementia Friend? Supporting Clients with Compassion and Understanding

12 July 2025 | Wills, Trust & Probate | Author: Jayne Parsons

In legal practice - especially in Wills and Probate - legal professionals often work closely with older clients and those experiencing memory loss, confusion, or other cognitive challenges. One way legal professionals can better support these individuals is by becoming a Dementia Friend.

Jayne Parsons, Senior Associate and Head of the Wills and Probate Department, is a trained Dementia Friend and brings this understanding into every client interaction. With decades of experience in supporting vulnerable clients, Jayne leads a team that prioritises care, patience, and dignity in all aspects of estate and capacity planning.

Understanding the Role of a Dementia Friend

A Dementia Friend is someone who has undergone training to better understand what it’s like to live with dementia. They learn how to approach, communicate with, and support people experiencing the early - or even more advanced - stages of the condition.

While not a formal medical or legal qualification, being a Dementia Friend equips individuals with the empathy, awareness, and practical techniques needed to interact with clients respectfully and effectively.

This is especially relevant in legal settings where decisions about Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs), or estate planning require careful communication, sensitivity, and clear evidence of mental capacity.

It’s Not Always Dementia

It is important to recognise that memory issues or confusion does not always mean dementia is present. There are many other conditions - some temporary or related to mental health - that may mimic the signs of dementia. A Dementia Friend understands this and treats every client as an individual and with compassion.

Creating a Safe and Comfortable Space

At Fishers Solicitors, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for clients with dementia or other cognitive impairments is a priority. The team has extensive experience in working with elderly clients, and every effort is made to go at the client’s pace.

From the moment a client walks through the door, the focus is on comfort, patience, and trust. Conversations are never rushed. Information is gently drawn out through kind, consistent interaction, ensuring the client feels at ease.

Legal Capacity and Protection

Before moving forward with legal documents such as Wills or LPAs, it is essential to confirm that a client has sufficient mental capacity and is making decisions of their own free will. This assessment is conducted with the utmost care and professionalism. If there are signs of coercion or significant mental impairment, the legal team will either postpone the process or help families seek further support - sometimes through the Court of Protection or other appropriate services.

Encouraging Dignity and Trust

Many people feel anxious about visiting a solicitor’s office, especially when dealing with sensitive matters and health challenges. Fishers Solicitors is committed to changing that perception by creating a warm, accessible environment where clients not only feel respected - but also want to return, knowing they will be met with understanding and care.

Jayne Parsons’ training as a Dementia Friend plays a key role in shaping this client-first approach, and she ensures that all members of the team are equally committed to providing a safe, supportive experience.

Final Thoughts

Being a Dementia Friend is more than a label - it reflects our commitment to treating every client with dignity, patience, and compassion. In areas like Wills and Probate, that approach makes a meaningful difference.

To learn more about how Jayne Parsons and her team can help with Wills, LPAs, or other private client services - especially for those navigating memory or capacity concerns - get in touch today to arrange a confidential, friendly consultation.