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Swimming

Swimming is a great activity if you’re living with dementia. Here are 7 reasons to head to your local pool…

From keeping fit to relaxing your body and improving mental health, going for a swim has many positive benefits.

If you’re looking to get moving and want to add an activity to your week that has both physical and mental benefits, why not give swimming a go?

Swimming has been shown in studies to be particularly beneficial for those living with dementia. One study* showed improvements in wellbeing, pain, balance, functional fitness, concentration and confidence.

Those taking part in the study said they felt more alert and mentally stimulated after swimming and others said it improved their mood and made them feel more connected with their community.

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The benefits of swimming to those living with dementia are so wide ranging that a dementia-friendly swimming project was launched by Swim England find sessions in your area here

7 reasons to go for a swim

1. It’s a low impact exercise, so won’t stress your joints

2. It’s calming and relaxing and helps reduce anxiety

3. It boosts your mood

4. It can leave you feeling more alert and improve concentration

5. It improves fitness

6. It can help reduce pain

7. It can help beat loneliness by keeping you connected to others

How to get the most out of swimming

If you already enjoy a swim, keep going. There’s lots of evidence to show that it’s hugely beneficial to you.

If you’ve not been swimming for a while, or might have lost confidence, there are some tips that might help entice you back to the pool.

Go to your local pool and ask for a familiarisation session. They’ll show you around the changing areas and poolside.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions:

  • Are changing facilities mixed?

  • What are the showers like?

  • Do you need a coin for the locker?  

  • When’s the best time to swim?

  • Are there specific sessions for people living with dementia, so you can plan for the future?

  • What do you need to bring with you – e.g. are swimming hats compulsory?

  • Is there somewhere to go for a coffee and chat after?

Don’t think swimming isn’t for you. Some people feel that their aches and pains means swimming is off limits. But swimming has been shown to ease joint pain, is a low impact activity and is easy on the joints. If in any doubt about swimming, speak to your GP first.

Ask a friend or loved one to go with you. Swimming is a fun, relaxing and sociable activity – especially if you go with someone else. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy being active with others – and there’s always the chance of a hot drink and a chat afterwards.

*The Swim England Dementia Friendly Swimming Project Summary 2018