Imagine you were no longer able to look after your financial affairs, or, less dramatically, simply found it an increasing burden to manage your money. How easy would it be for a trusted family member to step in and help you?

There are many reasons why you might find it more difficult to manage your finances as you get older. On top of complex investment structures and a busy lifestyle you might find a normal, age-related decline in your memory creeping up on you. Or it may be a major illness or the onset of dementia that leaves you unable to take proper care of your financial affairs.

To make life easier, both for you and your family, it’s crucial that you plan ahead.

Hope for the best, plan for the worst

While it’s more pleasant to think about long holidays, new adventures or spending time with grandchildren, you also need to plan for the worst. And as nobody can predict the future, the sooner you work up your financial management bucket list the better.

Here are some of the things you can do:

• Simplify your finances. Close unnecessary bank accounts and opt for fewer credit cards.
• Set up direct debit payments for regular bills.
• Update your will. If you don’t have one, make one – soon!
• Nominate beneficiaries for your superannuation. Super doesn’t form part of your estate, but you can nominate your estate as the beneficiary, in which case your superannuation will be distributed under the terms of the will.
• If you have a self-managed superannuation fund, decide whether you still need it or if you need professional help in managing it.
• Appoint an enduring power of attorney. This is someone who can act on your behalf, so it is critical you appoint someone whom you trust to act in your best interests. Most people select a spouse or adult child, but this role can be filled by the Public Trustee or a solicitor.
• Nominate someone to make medical decisions on your behalf.
• Create a file of all your important financial documents, including house deeds, will, birth and marriage certificates, personal insurance policies, health documents and a list of your financial investments. Store it in a safe place and tell your attorney where it is.