"- Is it possible that he could have the capacity to delegate a specific task to someone (say to collect his pension)…...effectively a power of attorney but be deemed to lack sufficient capacity to put an Enduring Power of Attorney in place?"
See this useful piece on the new Act - when commenced. The problem is that it has not been entirely commenced/ implemented- to the best of my knowledge, we are still operating under the existing regime.
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On the specific query- I think if there is no capacity to do an EPA, then there is, very likely, no capacity to do a POA.
In practice, it comes down to practical solutions/measures, taken in good time. Set up accounts early on into which pensions can be lodged where trusted family members can access funds.
In my own office, I would have a lot of elderly clients- I've known them for years and I know the families.
If a GP/Geriatrician will confirm capacity and if I'm satisfied , from my own interview, that the person has capacity, I will take their instructions.
However, many financial institutions, for very good reason, will require medical certification and actual , physical presence at the branch by the person to implement a Power of Attorney. They've seen the dodgy stuff too often.
Most solicitors will be very reluctant to try and take instructions from an elderly person that they've never met who has any capacity issues- you only have to read some of the posts on Askaboutmoney about allegations of skullduggery and misappropriation..............
Case by case.
mf