Swimming for dementia: an exploratory qualitative study

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Hobden, Tanya, Swallow, Mary, Beer, Charlotte and Dening, Tom (2018) Swimming for dementia: an exploratory qualitative study. Dementia . ISSN 1741-2684

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Abstract

Swimming is a non-weight bearing form of exercise that can be enjoyable and promote physical fitness. This qualitative study investigated a local group established as part of a national dementia swimming initiative. Semi-structured interviews with people with dementia (N=4), carers or companions (N=4) and the organisers and facilitators of the group (N=6) were analysed using thematic analysis. This revealed four main themes: (1) the pleasure of swimming and its benefits as a form of exercise and for building confidence and empowering participants; (2) the importance of insight and empathy in creating a safe and secure experience; (3) the impact of dementia; and (4) how participants valued being part of a group ‘all in the same boat’. ‘Dementia friendly swimming’ appears to be a valuable form of exercise but it requires considerable preparation and support to make it happen.

Item Type: Article
Keywords: swimming, dementia, dementia friendly, exercise, people with dementia
Schools/Departments: University of Nottingham, UK > Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > School of Medicine > Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology
Identification Number: https://doi.org/10.1177/1471301218768372
Depositing User: Eprints, Support
Date Deposited: 14 Mar 2018 11:58
Last Modified: 08 May 2020 09:30
URI: https://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/id/eprint/50442

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