Older people are keen to keep their independence.

This can mean anything from doing their own shopping to keeping hold of power of attorney over their assets.

As the country gears up for a general election all the main parties will be looking to attract older voters.

Policies that can help pensioners support themselves could help swing vital votes.

Both the Tories and the Lib Dems have proposed changes to the council tax system to help people on pensions.

Ana Palazon of Help the Aged said council tax was a big issue for older voters.

“Council tax is an issue that has provoked real anger among older people on fixed incomes over the last few years and it will be high on older people's agendas come the election,” she said.