“Dementia Club UK are delighted to be in partnership with BETTER Leisure Centre. The launch of the dementia friendly swimming session at Finchley Lido Leisure Centre today was a great success. Those that attended really enjoyed it and some commented that it was their first time in 30 years and although felt nervous to start with, they soon gained their confidence. Another individual who did not know how to swim was soon enjoying the water splashing and was able to lie on their back supported with a foam swimming pool noodle provided by the instructors. Everyone had great fun in the water whilst also listening to some music favourites.
We hope in the weeks ahead to welcome more individuals living with dementia and their carers to come along and try the session which are completely free.”
BETTER at Finchley Lido Leisure Centre said:
In partnership with Dementia Club UK, today was our launch day for the dementia-friendly swimming sessions at Finchley Lido Leisure Centre. This session encourages all individuals living with dementia to come along and join us for an hour of fun swimming!
Dementia is a syndrome associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning and includes memory loss, disruption in thought patterns, and difficulties with language. One in 14 people over the age of 65 have dementia in the UK, which negatively impacts their ability to function and carry out everyday activities.
Research continues to demonstrate the benefits of low-impact exercises on those living with dementia, not only for physical health but for mental health too. Swimming in particular has shown to reduce anxiety, enhance psychological well-being and improve the quality of life for people in all stages of dementia with less strain on joints compared to land-based exercises.
This weekly session aims to give individuals living with dementia the opportunity to socialise with others and take part in regular physical activity. I am looking forward to seeing how this programme grows over the coming weeks!