There comes a time to accept life's realities, at 80 why do they still need a house,why not Rent  a small apartment because whether this couple likes it or not, they are looking at either a retirement or Nursing Home in their immediate future.
Reverse Mortgages assure you that when you need the money for a Retirement Home, it will not be there.
Debt Free, $40,000 Net Income can provide a very comfortable old age.
We sold, moved to a 55 Plus Community with good local Hospital, no monthly fees and put the money in the Bank for when we would need it.