Swimming is a sport that can be enjoyed by children and adults of many differing levels of physical ability. With the assistance of adaptive equipment intended to compensate for various disabilities, most people can enjoy aquatic sports. According to the Special Olympics, disabled swimmers usually swim in public pools, so athletes should be made aware of available supplies and designated lanes, as well as regular, built-in hazards that may be inherent in the environment.
Briefing
Prior to entering the pool area, handicapped swimmers should be made aware of any dangers and notified of barriers built into the swimming area. Entrances and doorways should be clearly marked and accessible for wheelchairs, canes and other adaptive devices. Water depth, pool temperature and location of steps, rails and ladders should be pointed out to swimmers before they get in the pool. Lifeguards should be trained in assisting handicapped swimmers and be aware of emergency procedures.
Access
Handicapped swimmers can utilize various devices when they are unable to access a pool or natural body of water without assistance. You can use a lift with a seat to lower the swimmer into the water. Mobility devices with large balloon-like wheels can help handicapped swimmers to navigate beaches and other soft surfaces to get to the water's edge. Padded stairs that gradually lower into the water can help paraplegic swimmers to enter a pool.
Flotation Devices
A flotation device can help a handicapped swimmer to maintain balance and stability in the water. Full-body floats may be necessary to allow swimmers to stay above the waterline. Floats that attach to the arms or kickboards allow swimmers with upper-body limitations to rely on their legs to propel them through the water. According to United Cerebral Palsy, a swimmer's abilities, limitations and experience in the water should be considered when using flotation devices.
Markers
For swimmers with limited vision, brightly marked lanes can help them identify the routes when swimming. Padded ropes are helpful to eliminate scrapes that can occur when the swimmer rubs against the ropes. A tapper is a person who swims alongside a blind swimmer to provide cues when the swimmer is not maintaining a straight course. For blind swimmers using a diving board, sprinklers are available that can be activated to tell the diver when the end of the board appears, according to the United States Association of Blind Athletes.
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