Cooley Dickinson Hospital's Rehabilitation Department offers an Aquatics Therapy Program three times each week in Hampshire Regional YMCA's indoor therapeutic pool. The pool is very accessible and can accommodate people who use canes, walkers or wheelchairs. The gradual slope of the bottom begins at three feet and increases in depth to four feet maximum. The temperature is set in the range of 86-89 degrees. No swimming skills are required to participate in the program. A lifeguard is on duty at all times and, if needed, can assist with the available wheelchair lift.

Water is an excellent medium for exercise. It provides a sense of buoyancy, stimulates blood flow and circulation, and promotes relaxation. As a result, muscle spasm, pain and fear of movement decreases. This allows muscle strength, joint range of motion and balance to improve.

Who is an Aquatics Therapy Program Candidate...

...Any individual who has difficulty with weight bearing activities, balance or difficulty using joints or muscles.

To begin, a member of our knowledgeable physical therapy team will evaluate and then establish goals with the participant to outline a customized therapy program. While in the pool, our Certified Aquatics Instructor/PTA will train and closely monitor progress. Periodically, program participants will be re-evaluated for therapy revisions.

We recommend discussing with your physician the possible benefits of Aquatics Therapy and then asking for a Physical Therapy consultation. Once obtained, simply call one of our four offices to set up an appointment. The Aquatics Program is not an insured benefit in some policies; contact your insurance company to clarify restrictions.