More
Singaporeans applying for Lasting Power of
Attorney
SINGAPORE: More Singaporeans are applying for Lasting Power of
Attorney (LPA) to appoint someone to make decisions for them should
they lose mental capacity.
Since the Mental Capacity Act came into effect in March 2010,
more than 20,000 people have applied for LPAs, Social and Family
Development Minister Tan Chuan-Jin told Parliament on Thursday (Jan
28).
In 2015 alone, 8,360 LPAs were made – an increase of nearly 160
per cent from the previous year.
Responding to a question by MP Seah Kian Peng, Mr Tan said the
take-up rate for LPAs increased after changes were made to the
scheme.
In late 2014, the LPA form was simplified and the S$50
application fee was waived for Singaporeans using the basic,
standardised form. Applications can also now be submitted via mail
instead of personally at the Office of the Public Guardian.
“We encourage more Singaporeans to make an LPA,” Mr Tan said.
“We will continue to improve the process of making an LPA while
ensuring that the necessary safeguards are in place.”
- CNA/cy