Swimming Pool Safety for Seniors

It’s true that for seniors, swimming pools can be a great way to exercise and stay fit. Unfortunately, the reality is that there are many hazards associated with pools for seniors. Below, the team at LinerWorld has come up with several different ways in which seniors can remove these dangerous hazards from their pools to establish a safe swimming environment.

Invest in pool stairs rather than pool ladders
There are many different sets of pool stairs designed for easy access in and out of the pool, not just for elderly people but for swimmers of all ages. For some, a steep ladder might prove too difficult to climb, so it’s important to make your access point as easy to use as possible.

Avoid swimming alone
No matter what age you are, swimming alone always poses a risk. Make sure there’s someone nearby able to assist you or call for help in case there were to be an emergency pool situation.

Install pool alarms
Creating a safe pool environment for seniors means preparing well in advance in case an emergency situation were to occur. Installing a pool alarm ensures that nobody will be entering the pool undetected, which can be extremely helpful when dealing with elderly individuals and memory loss. Pool alarms are also incredibly valuable for families with young children and pets.

Clear the swimming pool area of all unnecessary clutter
Removing all trip and fall hazards around the pool area is essential in creating a safe environment. Get rid of the unnecessary dangers and keep the deck area organized. Install a safety bar Installing a safety bar can be helpful for seniors that have difficulty getting in and out of the pool, and it can also be used as an exercise bar for those that have the ability to do so.

Consult with your doctor before beginning extensive swimming pool exercises
Before you jump into the pool and start getting that great workout, consult a medical professional to get on the same page in terms of abilities, limitations, and schedules.

Swimming pools are a great resource for seniors in terms of health and socialization, but safety is an important focus. It’s crucial that seniors take care to follow the above precautions to stay safe in and around the water. If you have any questions regarding pool safety for seniors, feel free to contact the professionals at LinerWorld. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have!