Fibromyalgia

Overview

Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue and heightened sensitivity to pressure and touch. Individuals with fibromyalgia may also experience cognitive difficulties, poor sleep, headaches and gastrointestinal symptoms. The severity and type of symptoms can vary from person to person and may fluctuate day to day, often with unpredictable flare-ups. These factors can significantly impact an individual’s ability to manage toileting independently.

According to Arthritis UK, fibromyalgia affects around 1 in 20 people in the UK, with the majority being women between the ages of 30 and 50, though it can affect anyone.

Functional Toileting Challenges:

Pain and discomfort, which can make sitting, transferring or completing hygiene tasks more difficult

Fatigue or reduced mobility during flare-ups, particularly in older adults or those with co-existing health conditions

Heightened sensitivity or discomfort in the abdominal area when wiping or twisting

Reduced dexterity or grip strength during flare-ups, affecting wiping or operating small buttons

Unpredictable symptom patterns, making consistent self-care strategies difficult to maintain

Impacts:

Incomplete hygiene tasks

Pain, fatigue or reduced flexibility can lead to ineffective cleaning and increases the risk of skin irritation and infection

Dependence on carers

During a flare-up, increased support on others for toileting, raising care burden and reducing independence

Safety risks

Pain, stiffness and fatigue can increase the risk of falls or unsafe use of equipment

Reduced dignity

Fluctuating ability can lead to frustration, embarrassment or loss of confidence

How our products help those with Fibromyalgia

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.
Aerolet Tilt	The Aerolet provides the person with mechanical support in standing, further reducing strain on the joints and effort
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
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 standard seat

Moderate

Integrated fold-down support arms

Complex

Aerolet Tilt

Sample specification wording

The individual experiences widespread pain, fatigue and reduced flexibility due to fibromyalgia. Manual wiping and standard toilet use cause significant discomfort and increase the risk of incomplete hygiene and falls. A Closomat Wash and Dry Toilet with automatic washing and drying and integrated fold-down support arms will promote comfort, independence and safety, particularly during symptom flare-ups. In severe cases, an Aerolet Tilt can provide additional assistance with sitting and standing, reducing physical effort and strain on painful joints and muscles.

Final checks

Ensure controls can be operated with ease and during periods of flare-ups

Consider the optimum height to avoid pressure and discomfort

Is the solution flexible enough to cope as symptoms fluctuate over time

Download the specification

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

Download