Leisure centres offer free swimming for people living with dementia

Free swimming sessions for people living with dementia and their carers are being offered at leisure centres in Stratford-on-Avon District during Dementia Action Week (19-25 May).

Stratford Leisure Centre, Southam Leisure Centre, Shipston Leisure Centre and Studley Leisure Centre, run in partnership with Stratford-on-Avon District Council, are supporting the initiative.

An estimated 982,000 people are living with dementia in the UK, but more than a third of those with the condition do not have a diagnosis. Common symptoms include memory loss, confusion, difficulty concentrating and struggling to follow a conversation, which can often impact a person's daily life.

Regular low-impact physical activity can help improve the overall wellbeing of those living with dementia, offering opportunities to socialise, improve balance, strength and mobility, and boost mood.

Everyone Active's contract manager, Richard Bell, said: "We're so pleased to offer this initiative and hope it will support people living with dementia so that they can enjoy the many benefits that swimming can bring.

"Swimming is known to relax the body and reduce anxiety in a weightless environment while giving people informal opportunities to socialise - all of which are important for people living with this condition. It is accessible no matter your age, fitness level or ability.

"Keeping active can have a significant positive impact on those living with dementia and we hope these sessions will help people affected to live well, improve their physical and mental wellbeing and also have fun."

Cllr Lorraine Grocott, Environmental and Neighbourhood Services Portfolio said: "As a District Council, we are dedicated to providing opportunities for everyone to improve their fitness and wellbeing, and we are proud to offer free swimming sessions at our leisure centres during this time. Swimming provides gentle physical activity and has proven benefits for mental wellbeing.

"This initiative is a positive and much welcomed contribution to Dementia Action Week, and we hope that people living with dementia, along with their carers, will take full advantage of it."

Dementia Action Week is an annual awareness campaign led by the Alzheimer's Society to encourage people to act on dementia.

Customers can arrive on the day to book in free of charge, phone their local centre or email AmyWidman@everyoneactive.com directly. For more information, visit: Everyone Active - Leading Operator for Gym, Swim and Activities

Those with underlying health conditions such as heart problems, diabetes or breathing issues should contact their GP before starting any new activity.