Medical commodes, bathroom grab bars and chair raisers may do the job for many retired people, but they do nothing to enhance the style and ambience of a home. Now, smart gadgets that blend seamlessly into the design of homes are transforming the lives of seniors.

In high-end retirement schemes, such as that run by Auriens in Chelsea, you can expect motorised lowering wall units in the kitchen, top-loading dishwashers and even circadian lighting that keeps the body clock in rhythm. They have also installed tasteful chrome towel rails to the sinks in the bathrooms which double as grab bars.

Elysian Residences, meanwhile, has fitted lower baths with wider edges and reinforced handles so homeowners at its two completed villages and four new ones, due