Weekly Newsletter:

March 26, 2025

For so many reasons!

(But there are some hurdles to get there…)

Where to Start — Find a Pool or Aquatics Therapy Program

Where to go for accessible water exercise programs?

Google or AI search suggestions:  

1. YMCA’s — ask for water therapy programs

2. Aquatic Physical Therapy near me

How to Get in the Water - Accessible Pools:

• ADA Accessible Pool Requirements

Pool Lifts

Sloping Entrance

If You’re Afraid of the Water:

• Overcoming Fear of the Water

Fear of water is very common. If you or your loved one wants to “get through it” and get in the water, here’s some advice...

Ease Into It:

Overcoming any trepidation about water or pools takes time. Start by sitting at the edge of the pool with your feet in the water. A "zero entry" pool (with a gently sloping bottom) can allow gradual entry. Even if you only go in up to your knees, celebrate the success and set a new goal for next time.

Why Water Exercise is Special and Helpful?

Once you’re in, it feels good and is good for you!

Aquatic Physical Therapy: Healing Through Water

Aquatic physical therapy, also known as hydrotherapy, is a specialized form of rehabilitation performed in water. The properties of water—buoyancy, resistance, and hydrostatic pressure—provide numerous benefits for individuals recovering from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions.

Before You Start:

Before beginning a water exercise routine, check in with your healthcare team and attend a class led by a certified professional.

• Water Exercises for Seniors

Aquatic therapy offers a range of benefits, including:

• Pain Relief: The buoyancy of water reduces stress on joints and muscles, alleviating pain during exercises.
• Improved Mobility: Water supports movement, making it easier to regain joint range of motion.
• Strength and Endurance: The resistance provided by water helps improve muscular strength and cardiovascular fitness.
• Reduced Swelling: Hydrostatic pressure minimizes swelling and promotes lymphatic drainage.
• Relaxation and Stress Reduction: The warm temperature of therapeutic pools relaxes tight muscles and reduces stress.

Buoyancy: The water actually holds you up!

(but you may already know that if you’ve been there and done that…) 

Conditions Treated with Aquatic Therapy

Aquatic physical therapy is suitable for a wide variety of conditions, including:

• Orthopedic Injuries: Fractures, ligament tears, and post-surgical rehabilitation.
• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis patients benefit from reduced joint stress and increased mobility.
• Neurological Disorders: Conditions like stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.
• Chronic Pain Conditions: Fibromyalgia and chronic lower back pain.
• Sports Injuries: Recovery from sprains, strains, and overuse injuries.

Unique Advantages

Aquatic therapy is particularly beneficial for patients who experience:

• Weight-bearing restrictions.
• Severe pain or swelling during land-based exercises.
• Limited mobility due to neurological or musculoskeletal conditions.

However, not all patients are candidates for aquatic therapy. Conditions like open wounds, certain infections, or hydrophobia may limit its use.

The Benefits of Cold vs. Warm Water

— Susan Musicant, DPT

Injury Prevention Coordinator at DayBreak

Every day, seniors in our community face the challenges of aging alone—but together, we can make a difference! Your kindness provides support, connection, and hope to those who need it most.

If you know an elder in need of our care and coordination services, or a caregiver seeking support, please encourage them to reach out to us at: 

510-834-8314