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Before you commit to a membership or class, ask for a tour of the facility so you can see how the space will work for you on a good day and a not-so-good day.
Safety and Accessibility
Look at the entire route from the parking lot to the water.
Questions to consider:
- Is there accessible parking and an entrance without lots of steps?
- How far is it from the front door to the locker room and from the locker room to the pool?
“For some people with MS, just walking to the back of the building can be tiring, so knowing where you might need rest breaks is important,” says Covey.
In the locker room, check for wide stalls, grab bars, and shower chairs if you or a care partner might need them, she says.
Near the pool, Covey suggests checking for the following:
- A lift or hoist to help you in and out of the water if you have limited mobility
- Ramps with nonslip surfaces and sturdy railings
- Grab bars along the pool walls to help you stabilize and perform exercises with hand support
If you use a cane or other mobility equipment, ask if you can use it in the pool area, says Covey. “Make sure the area is safe for moving, and wear water shoes to assist with traction and reduce fall risk,” she says.
A pool lift or ramp can make the difference between needing two people to help you in and out of the pool versus being able to get in on your own or with just one person assisting you.
A place to sit near the pool is also helpful if you are waiting for an appointment or class, or if you have a caregiver that is attending with you and will not be getting into the pool, says Covey.
And consider finding a pool with a lifeguard on duty for added safety in case you get tired while swimming.
Water Temperature
Ask about the usual pool temperature. For most people with MS, a slightly cooler pool — between 80 and 84 degrees F — is more comfortable and less likely to trigger heat-related symptoms, says Covey. Very warm pools may feel good at first but may cause issues if you’re heat-sensitive.
Equipment and Instruction
Look around to see what equipment is available and how people are using it. Many therapeutic or community pools have:
- Foam pool noodles
- Kickboards or core boards
- Float belts or dumbbells
- Buoys or fins
“These tools can help with balance, make it easier to walk in the pool, or add resistance to build strength,” says Covey.
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