Information & Referral: Summer Time and the Water is Fine

Summer is fast approaching and your local swimming hole (or pool) is a fun way to cool down for people of all abilities.

Newly designed or newly constructed and altered swimming pools, wading pools, aquatic recreation facilities, and spas must meet ADA regulations. There are also many products that make swimming and pools more accessible for people with disabilities — even pool wheelchairs. ABLEDATA provides a list of water related assistive technology devices that can help people with disabilities enjoy water activities.

Water is also a source of therapy and rehabilitation for people with disabilities. Aquatic therapy activities can be done in either indoor or outdoor pool facilities and consist of cardiovascular endurance and conditioning exercises. These include walking, jogging, jumping, swimming, kicking, and other continuous rhythmic activities that elevate metabolism and improve cardiovascular function. Read the Aquatic Therapy Factsheet for more information.

Additional Resources

• Aquatic Therapy and Rehab Institute
• Aquatic Exercise Association
• Accessible Swimming Pools and Spas from the Access Board
• Making a Splash: Inclusion of People with Disabilities in Aquatic Venues
• Providing Access to Beaches