Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Overview

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a long-term neurological demyelinating condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. It happens when the body’s immune system attacks the protective covering around the nerves (called myelin), which disrupts how messages travel between the brain and the rest of the body. This can lead to symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, stiffness or spasms, poor coordination and changes in sensation. MS affects everyone differently; some people have periods where symptoms come and go (relapse and remissions) while others experience a gradual progression over time.

According to the MS Society, there are over 130,000 people living with MS in the UK, with around 7,000 new diagnoses each year. It is most commonly diagnosed in adults aged between 20 and 40 and symptoms can change unpredictably over time, requiring ongoing review of equipment and support.

Functional Toileting Challenges:

Fatigue and weakness, leading to difficulty transferring or maintaining posture during toileting

Reduced hand function or dexterity, making wiping, flushing or using controls challenging

Spasticity and tremors, affecting safety, stability and precise movements

Sensory changes, such as numbness or reduced sensation, which can make hygiene awareness difficult

Bowel and bladder urgency or incontinence, requiring quick access and reliable hygiene solutions

Fluctuating symptoms, meaning independence can vary from day to day requiring equipment that is adaptable to presenting symptoms

Impacts:

Incomplete hygiene tasks

Fatigue and poor dexterity can increase the risk of infections, odour and skin problems

Greater reliance on carers

During periods of relapse or fatigue, unable to use functions on toilet independently, increasing care burden and costs

Loss of dignity

Reduced self-esteem when unable to toilet independently

Unsafe environment

Spasticity or weakness increases the risk of falls during transfers

Exercise tolerance

Energy is used on a purposeful task, meaning the person is too tired to engage in further, more meaningful activity

How our products help those with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

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
Proxy switch	Simplifies the operation for those with reduced hand movements or strength to control the toilet function without assistance
(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 a proxy switch and integrated fold-down support arms

Moderate

Installed with an adult soft seat for comfort

Complex

Carer operated controls for complete hand-free use

Sample specification wording

The individual has Multiple Sclerosis, which causes fluctuating mobility, fatigue and reduced dexterity, all symptoms which make independent toileting much more difficult. Manual wiping can be unreliable, increasing the risk of infection, while the physical effort of getting to and using the toilet can be tiring. Relying on carer support can also reduce privacy and dignity.

A Closomat Palma Vita Wash and Dry Toilet with automatic washing and drying, a proxy switch and integrated fold-down support arms would support independence and improved hygiene, while reducing the need for personal care assistance. An adult soft seat can provide additional comfort, particularly during periods of increased fatigue or discomfort, while carer-operated controls allow assistance with the washing and drying functions when independent operation becomes difficult.

As symptoms fluctuate or progress, the Closomat’s adaptable design can continue to meet the individual’s changing needs, including if they become a full-time wheelchair user. This flexibility helps maintain consistent hygiene, comfort and dignity while reducing carer dependency wherever possible.

Final checks

Confirm that the control placement is adjustable to suit hand function and reach as symptoms evolve

Ensure adequate bathroom floor space for future wheelchair access or hoist transfers

Remember to schedule in regular reviews to examine the seating, transfer aids and settings of the Closomat as the condition progresses

Download the specification

Wash and dry toilet specification for multiple sclerosis (MS), with the recommended features and clinical justification.

Download