Some schemes, too, allow the plan to be transferred over to a new property, but this will depend on the value of the original property. Not all financial experts who could potentially stand to gain through commission are in favour. That's nearly half of the value she's given up she gets back. Another obstacle preventing those over 65 from releasing equity in their homes is a desire to leave property to their nearest and dearest as an inheritance. Rhian Beynon of the charity Age Concern told BBC News Online that it is very much a matter for the individual and anyone considering taking out such a plan needs to weigh up the pros and cons carefully.
Older people are very limited in the kind of investment they can make.
But she cautions against rushing in. If the scheme comes off, it really is down to a whole set of personal factors. They can work for some people but it will be a relatively small section.