Arthritis (Rheumatoid/Osteo)

Overview

According to Arthritis Action, around 10 million people in the UK are thought to be living with some form of arthritis. It is the most common cause of disability in the country and can affect individuals of all ages.

The term “arthritis” means inflammation in the joints. The most prevalent type is osteoarthritis, followed by rheumatoid arthritis and gout, though there are many other variations. Typical symptoms include joint pain and stiffness, leading to reduced mobility and weakness, particularly in the hands, wrists, knees and hips. These difficulties can interfere with everyday functions such as transfers, posture, gripping and dexterous personal care tasks like wiping after using the toilet.

Whilst arthritis is generally associated with joint pain, rheumatoid arthritis can impact vision and other sensory processing.

Functional Toileting Challenges:

Pain and stiffness, when twisting or reaching for wiping

Difficulty gripping toilet paper, or pressing small flush buttons

Challenges rising from or lowering to the toilet, due to hip/knee pain

Increased fatigue, when toileting

Impacts:

Poor hygiene

Increased risk of infection or cross contamination

Prolonged toileting or reliance on carer assistance

Reduced independence and dignity

Increased falls risk

When attempting transfers without adequate support

Psychological stress

Due to loss of independence, confidence and discomfort

How our products help those with Arthritis

FEATURE	WHY IT HELPS
Palma Vita Wash and Dry Toilet	Provides improved hygiene, comfort and independence with integrated washing and drying functions, reducing the need for assistance and supporting accessibility.
Integrated fold-down support arms	Improves physical safety when using the toilet, especially if mobility impaired
Adult standard seat	Provides a safe and comfortable seating surface for toileting, supporting everyday hygiene and independence.
Touch sensitive hand/foot switch	Makes it easier to recognise and use without complex instructions
Height adjustable – Engineer installed plinth	Installed by a qualified engineer, the plinth raises the toilet to an appropriate height, reducing strain on painful or stiff joints and making sitting down and standing up easier and more comfortable
Douche (standard)	Supports personal hygiene and cleanliness, helping users maintain independence and comfort during toileting.

Closomat wash and dry toilet in a modern bathroom with a teal wall

Priority specification

Foundational

The Closomat Palma Vita, easy-use controls with a touch sensitive hand/foot switch

Moderate

Integrated fold-down support arms for those who can push safely into a stand

Complex

Engineer installed plinth to reduce joint strain during transfers

Sample specification wording

Due to severe arthritis affecting the hands and hips, the client is often unable to achieve adequate hygiene following toileting. Manual wiping can be painful and unsafe, increasing risk of infection and carer dependency. A Closomat Wash and Dry Toilet with auto-wash and drying, together with easy-use controls with a touch sensitive hand/foot switch is recommended to maintain independence, reduce carer input and improve comfort and dignity.

The addition of integrated fold-down support arms with soft sleeves, combined with adjusting the pan height using a 50mm plinth, is recommended to reduce the strain on the joints and enhance confidence, stability and independence when using the toilet.

Final checks

Ensure the seat height adjustment range is suitable for the client’s needs

Check if there is adequate space for arm supports

Confirm that the client can use chosen control method

Download the specification

Wash and dry toilet specification for arthritis, with the recommended features and clinical justification.

Download

Arthritis