Sir Ranulph Fiennes, the renowned explorer, was discovered living under an assumed name in a remote Welsh care home at age 82, subject to severe restrictions including confinement to his room and required disguises when leaving. His second wife, Louise Millington-Cotes, had imposed these conditions and holds lasting power of attorney over his affairs; the care home owner raised serious concerns about medication arrangements and a questionable Do Not Resuscitate document, leading to intervention by authorities and the care inspectorate. This case raises significant questions about elder abuse and potential misuse of power of attorney by family members.

Sir Fiennes, who has Parkinson's disease and experienced five falls whilst at the home, appeared isolated and vulnerable, with no visitors or calls from friends and family—only his wife visited. The care inspectorate concluded in early 2026 that he was being unlawfully deprived of his liberty due to his wife's failure to follow proper legal protocols. At 59, Lady Fiennes is 23 years younger than Sir Ranulph; notably, he reportedly spoke frequently to the care home owner about his first wife Ginny, who died in 2004, and could not remember his current wife's name, calling her only "wifey" as instructed.