Newsnight tonight [Monday]

I don't think that anyone should wait until they are TOO old and infirm to move, it's a big undertaking.Make a list of all the things that you want from a house and surroundings and try and find it sooner rather than later.That way you have time to make things as you want them, make friends with neighbours and get to know the place that you live.We did this just six years ago and am so pleased that we did.

Or, unless you live in mansion and are absolutely determined to 'down size' you can start taking steps to stay in your home and just make it more age friendly.

Get a good walk-in shower put in, with grab rails inside and out. If you have space (doesn't need much) get a downstairs loo. There's always a stairlift to get up and down stairs and door steps can be modified into a ramp if need be.

The garden? Fence off most of it and turn it into a wild life area. Just leave enough for nice relaxer with a holder for your G&T?

My ex-next door neighbour (92) has done all this (except her preferred tipple is sherry) and built a car port with external socket for her mobility scooter. But then she's a 'game old bird' (her words)

these places would put me off too, I know a woman in her 60s who confessed just the other day that she cant wait to retire so she can get an oap place and is thinking of selling her house now to put the money away to pay for it (she has a partner but kept her own house as well).

I told her she was daft and got a dirty look. I cant stand the thought of other people taking over my life and the rules and regulations must be horrendous in those places.