Down’s Syndrome

Overview

Down’s Syndrome is a genetic condition that affects physical development, learning ability and health. Individuals may experience reduced muscle tone (hypotonia), joint laxity, balance difficulties, delayed motor skills, and cognitive or communication differences. These factors can affect independence with daily living tasks, including toileting, particularly where sequencing, balance, strength or hygiene awareness are involved.

Down’s Syndrome Scotland estimates that around 41,700 people with Down’s Syndrome live in the UK. With the right environmental adaptations and equipment, many individuals with Down’s Syndrome can achieve greater independence, safety and dignity in toileting routines.

Functional Toileting Challenges:

Low muscle tone and reduced strength: Makes sit-to-stand transfers and maintaining a stable seated posture more difficult

Balance and coordination difficulties: Increases risk of slips or falls during transfers

Joint laxity: Can make positioning unstable and increase the need for external support

Fine motor difficulties: Challenges with wiping, operating flushes or using small controls

Cognitive and sequencing difficulties: Multi-step toileting routines may be harder to follow independently

Sensory sensitivities (in some individuals): Discomfort with cold surfaces, noise or unfamiliar sensations can reduce tolerance

Impacts:

Incomplete hygiene

Reduced dexterity or sequencing difficulties may lead to inconsistent cleaning, increasing infection or skin irritation risk

Loss of independence

Increased reliance on carers for prompting or hands-on support

Reduced confidence

Fear of falling or “getting it wrong” can affect self-esteem

Safety concerns

Poor balance and low tone increase fall risk in bathrooms

How our products help those with Down’s Syndrome

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 soft seat	Provide additional comfort and reduce the pain of sitting for long periods. The Closomat can be supplied with a choice of soft feel seats that are navy blue in colour
Touch sensitive hand/foot switch	Makes it easier to recognise and use without complex instructions
(Infrared) Remote control	Enables carers to initiate wash and dry function discreetly if individual can no longer manage
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 with easy-use controls with a touch sensitive hand/foot switch and soft seat

Moderate

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

Complex

Carer controls if the person is unable to use themselves, which maximises dignity in care.

Sample specification wording

The individual has Down’s Syndrome resulting in reduced muscle tone, balance difficulties and challenges with fine motor control and task sequencing. These factors affect their ability to transfer safely, maintain stable seating and complete personal hygiene tasks independently.

A Closomat Wash and Dry Toilet will support consistent hygiene by reducing reliance on manual wiping and complex multi-step routines. A touch sensitive switch will enable straightforward operation, supporting understanding and independent use.

Fixed, integrated fold-down support arms will provide stability during transfers and while seated, reducing fall risk and a soft seat will improve comfort and tolerance, supporting safe, calm and independent toileting.

Final checks

Confirm transfer method and required seat height

Position controls for a simple, repeatable access

Review bathroom environment and consider visual prompts if appropriate

Download the specification

Wash and dry toilet specification for Down's syndrome, with the recommended features and clinical justification.

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