Stroke (Hemiplegia)

Overview

There are many different types of stroke, with either a bleed or blockage in a part of the brain interrupting blood flow, and therefore oxygenation, to any part of the brain.

A stroke can therefore cause a wide range of physical, sensory, cognitive and communication difficulties depending on the area of the brain affected. Common effects can include muscle weakness or paralysis on one-side of the body, reduced balance, visual-spatial problems, fatigue and impaired coordination. Some individuals may also experience reduced hand function, limited reach or difficulty planning and sequencing tasks.

These changes can significantly impact an individual’s ability to toilet independently. Transfers, hygiene and operating conventional controls may all become difficult.

According to the Stroke Association, there are approximately 100,000 strokes occurring each year in the UK, which equates to one stroke every five minutes. It is the fourth leading cause of death and a major cause of disability, with around 1.3 million living with the after-effects of a stroke.

Functional Toileting Challenges:

Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body: This makes it difficult to sit straight, stay balanced and move safely on and off the toilet

Poor balance and stability: Linked to proprioception, neglect and/or inattention, this causes increased dependence on supports or assistance for safe transfers and increased risk of falls or sliding off the toilet

Compromised hand function or dexterity: Challenges operating standard flush controls or sufficient strength and control for effective wiping

Fatigue and endurance issues: Transferring, cleaning and repositioning can be physically exhausting

Cognitive or sequencing difficulties: Challenges remembering steps, understanding equipment or responding to safety cues

Visual or perceptual impairment: Identifying the purpose and function of the toilet itself, or identifying one-sided controls

Impacts:

Incomplete hygiene tasks

Limited reach or dexterity may lead to hygiene issues increasing the risk of skin problems if wiping becomes difficult

Loss of dignity

Reduced self-esteem when unable to toilet independently and rely on carer for intimate tasks can affect psychological wellbeing

Reduced confidence

Anxiety over accessibility, slips or bowel management accidents can deter engagement in daily activities

Safety concerns

Conventional toilets and bathrooms rarely provide sufficient support for transfers or safe use with mobility aids

How our products help those with Stroke

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 Vertical	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 Aerolet Vertical and touch sensitive switch and standard seat

Sample specification wording

The individual has experienced a stroke resulting in one-sided weakness, reduced balance and impaired hand function. These difficulties affect their ability to transfer safely and carry out personal hygiene independently and would need increased support from carers with intimate tasks.

A Closomat Wash and Dry Toilet with Aerolet Vertical and a touch sensitive hand/foot switch and standard seat is recommended. The automatic wash and dry feature removes the need for manual wiping, which the user is unable to complete effectively due to the limited dexterity and reach. Due to the weakness on one side, the individual has reduced strength and therefore installing the Aerolet Vertical would provide the individual with something stable to support their stronger side.

The adaptable controls allow the operation from the individual’s stronger side, supporting independent toileting while reducing carer involvement in intimate tasks. The robustness and stability of the Closomat provides a long-term solution that accommodates changes in mobility as the individual continues their stroke rehabilitation.

Final checks

Verify control placement for user’s reach and dexterity

Check space requirements for positioning of mobility aids or wheelchair

Regularly review seat height, arm supports and settings as conditions change

Understand how the person’s stroke has affected them specifically, paying particular attention to mobility, transfers, coordination, vision and perception.

Download the specification

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

Download

Stroke