I also want to examine possible mortgage options that would allow older people, particularly on low incomes and who own their own homes, to access a moderate annual stream of income. I have spoken to my Canadian counterpart about their ideas for a scheme that allows homeowners to top up incomes by mortgaging a part of their property. The amount is recouped by the State, or agency acting for the State, when the home is eventually sold. This so-called "reverse mortgage" would allow low-income seniors to raise their annual incomes consistently over time and offer them a greater sense of security. In Ireland, over 80% of older adults living alone own their own homes.