Water as a therapeutic environment for people with physical disabilities
In recent decades it has been possible to certify that sport is a crucial ally in the care of body and mind. In line with this statement, we can assure that its importance lies in its ability to provide significant benefits to those who face limitations in their mobility due to injuries, diseases or chronic conditions.
According to a variety of studies, water sport activity improves our brain health, positively influences our mood, memory, cognitive abilities and coordination.
The union between sport and water provides a unique environment that reduces gravity, minimizes impact and offers controlled resistance, which facilitates the development of strength, flexibility and coordination.
This form of intervention not only improves people's physical condition, but also it has a positive impact on your emotional and mental well-being. In addition, it encourages independence and quality of life by promoting autonomy in daily activities. It should be noted, the multiple benefits of aquatic exercise and how it can make a difference in the lives of people with physical disabilities.
To the Aspace Catalonia Foundation the aquatic therapeutic activity is consolidated and a unique methodology is developed. That is why, behind each aquatic activity is intense and adapted work, designed for each individual. However, this service has one professional and individualized approach to improve the physical condition, motor skills and social relationships of the users.
Our methodology
Classes begin with an initial assessment that looks for the adaptation of the person to a medium as useful as water. This initial phase creates a connection of trust between the professional and the person. Through a comprehensive assessment of individual needs and applications, a specific work plan is designed for each person, ensuring that improvement goals are met.
Oriented as a complementary support activity for those people who will surely improve their quality of life thanks to water.
The core contents of this program encompass a range of skills and objectives:
- Water entrances and exits: This aspect focuses on helping participants develop autonomy in the water. Learning to get in and out of the water safely and confidently is critical to their independence and safety in an aquatic environment.
- Breathing: The breathing phases are worked on and the importance of closing the mouth and exhaling properly during swimming is emphasized. This is essential to maintain efficient and safe breathing in the water.
- Dives: During this phase, aspects such as lung capacity and apnea (holding your breath underwater) are explored, as well as the body's reactions underwater. This contributes to increased comfort and confidence in diving situations.
- Perception: It tries to increase body awareness in the water and improve range of motion. This helps participants feel more comfortable and confident in the aquatic environment.
- Tonic control: Learning to control the tension and relaxation of the body voluntarily is crucial for a more efficient and enjoyable swimming experience.
- Floating: Flotation is a fundamental skill to start swimming. It helps participants stay on the surface of the water and is the basis for learning different swimming styles.
- Turns: Spins are used as a tool for everyday activities. Learning to turn in the water can improve safety and comfort when performing daily tasks in an aquatic environment.
- Travels: This phase focuses on improving the motor skills and cardiorespiratory capacity of the participants. It helps to increase the ability to move in the water more effectively.
- Propulsion: Working on propulsion involves increasing autonomy in the water and developing coordination and swimming techniques.
- Motor skills: It focuses on developing upper and lower body skills, among other things, to improve dexterity and performance in the water.
- Emotional aspects: Recognizing the importance of emotions in the process, emotional issues are addressed as an integral part of progress. This can include managing stress, anxiety and promoting confidence in the water.
The methodologies used they are diverse and flexible, including individual and group exercises, games, use of assistive materials, problem solving, guided discovery and imitation of repeated movement patterns.
Although water activity is not the solution to all problems, it is proven to produce important benefits towards our health. Remember that the WHO recommends a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily, find out which activity suits you best based on your needs.
