Checklists & Tools

• Acknowledge that downsizing is a life transition, not a step backwards
• Identify why you’re considering change
• Decide whether you want independence, support, or future-proofing
• Accept that emotions are normal — excitement and grief can exist together

Step 2: Legal & Personal Foundations

• Review or update your Will
• Ensure Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA) is in place
• Confirm Advance Health Directive wishes
• Discuss wishes with your children or trusted people
• Gather important documents

Step 3: Involve the Right People

• Arrange a family meeting
• Invite adult children or trusted supporters
• Consider involving a social worker or aged-care advisor
• Be open about finances, health and future needs

Step 4: Understand Care Levels (Now & Later)

• Independent / Low Care
  – You live independently
  – No daily medical care required
  – External care can be brought in if needed
• Assisted / Supported Living (Low → Medium Care)
  – Meals, cleaning, medication reminders
  – Care increases gradually, as required
  – Often allows couples to stay together
• High Care / Residential Aged Care
  – 24/7 nursing support
  – Dementia or complex medical needs
  – Government regulated
• Decide what level suits you now, and what may be needed later

• Is your home still safe and manageable?
• Is maintenance becoming a burden?
• Are stairs, bathrooms or gardens a risk?
• Would a lock up and leave lifestyle suit you?
• Would community living reduce loneliness?

Step 6: Explore Living Options

• Visit Independent Living communities
• Visit Assisted / Supported Living villages
• Ask about low to high care transitions within the same place
• Ask about couples’ accommodation options
• Compare leasehold vs freehold vs rental models
• Ask about buy-in costs and ongoing fees

Step 7: Financial Understanding

• Understand entry costs
• Understand service fees
• Ask about exit fees (Deferred Management Fees)
• Ask if capital gains are retained, shared or forfeited
• Check affordability long-term, including care

Step 8: Decision & Planning

• Choose preferred living option
• Confirm timing
• Decide whether to sell the family home
• Engage professionals (agent, solicitor, downsizing support)

Step 9: Prepare for the Move (Engage a Downsizing Concierge)

• Get a building and pest inspection
  This helps identify any issues early, prevents surprises during buyer due diligence, and gives you clarity on the true condition of the home. Just as importantly, it allows you to get the right advice on what genuinely needs fixing and what can be left alone, so you don’t waste money on unnecessary works.
• Declutter slowly and thoughtfully
  Give yourself time. Downsizing doesn’t need to be rushed, and spreading this step out reduces stress and emotional fatigue.
• Decide what to keep, gift, sell, or donate
  Breaking belongings into clear categories makes decisions easier and ensures treasured items go where they’ll be appreciated.
• Pack essential items separately
  Keep everyday necessities, important documents, medications, and personal items easily accessible during the transition.
• Organise movers experienced with seniors
  Specialist movers understand the physical and emotional aspects of downsizing and provide patience, care, and reassurance on moving day.
• Set up new utilities and services ahead of time
  Ensuring electricity, internet, phone, and other services are ready before you move helps your new home feel comfortable and settled from day one.

Step 10: Transition & Settle In

• Personalise your new home
• Join social activities
• Establish routines
• Stay connected with family
• Allow yourself time to adjust