Aquatic Therapy
Aquatic therapy at Gaylord
Aquatic therapy at Gaylord is provided by physical and occupational therapists with advanced training. Inpatients and outpatients can receive aquatic therapy as part of their plan of recovery. Our therapists work with patients from our orthopedic physical therapy locations and Outpatient Services to improve strength and flexibility, reduce pain, build endurance, and restore balance. Gaylord is also a certified Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Center and offers community Aquatic Therapy.
Gaylord's 75-by-25 foot therapeutic pool is located on the hospital's Wallingford campus is specially designed for people with disabilities. The water temperature is maintained at a constant 90 degrees.
Pool features include:
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A 2-foot wide ledge for easy wheelchair access
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Hydraulic lift and overhead sling transfer lift
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Stairs with rails, transfer bench, warm water jets
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Bench in the water for those who need to sit while exercising
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Accessible locker rooms and showers
Gaylord Aquacize classes for everyone
Aquacize members who would like to utilize the pool for individual exercises may do so by scheduling an appointment that is designated for aquacize. Members will be asked to adhere to this time or forfeit use of the pool for that day. Time slots are 50 minutes and are available under pool hours. Aquacize is a community pool exercise program for people of all ages with disabilities or limitations. It also is ideal for older adults. Gaylord offers group classes as well as open pool hours at our main hospital campus in Wallingford. Use the button below to access a downloadable PDF that includes a General Information sheet, Physician Approval form, and a Consent to Participate form. Please bring the completed forms with you to your first class. For questions call the Pool Office at (203) 741-3440.
Pool Hours:
Monday - Thursday
7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Tuesday & Thursday
9:00 a.m. to Noon
Friday
8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Saturday
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The program strives to maximize functional independence for every level of care
Aquatic Physical Therapy
A physical therapist will first perform an evaluation on land to review your history and discuss your goals. Water offers a safe, buoyant environment for individuals recovering from sports-related injuries, orthopedic surgery, or a painful musculoskeletal injury.
Outpatient Aquatic Therapy
For easy entry the pool has specialized lifts, stairs with double handrails, and a two-foot-high ledge that allows individuals in wheelchairs to easily transfer into the water. Aquatic Therapy can provide benefits to patients affected by varying orthopedic and neurological conditions.
Inpatient Aquatic Therapy
Whether as a result of illness or injury, every patient's recovery is different, so rehabilitation must be individualized. Aquatic Therapy can be use as a part of Gaylord Inpatient services to increased ability to walk and stand in the water, as well as, greater flexibility, balance and strength building among other things.
Frequently asked questions about our Aquacize Classes
Do I need my doctor's permission?
We recommend that you consult with your physician before starting Aquacize or any exercise program.
Why should I consider a water-based exercise program?
The water provides a safe, cushioning environment for people with disabilities or limitations. Some of its benefits include:
- Relief of pain and muscle spasms
- Increased strength
- Improved cardiovascular endurance
- Increased range of motion in joints
- Improved balance and coordination
- Improved walking
- Improved functional ability and self-confidence
- Pressure relief and improved circulation
Is the pool accessible?
Yes, Gaylord's 75-foot-by-25-foot therapeutic pool is specially designed for people with disabilities. Features include:
- A 2-foot wide ledge for easy wheelchair access
- Hydraulic lift
- Stairs with rails
- A bench in the water for those who need to sit while exercising
- Accessible locker rooms and showers
Is the water cold?
Most people find the water in the therapeutic pool to be very comfortable. Water temperature is maintained between 88-90 degrees.
Is there a lifeguard on duty?
A lifeguard, therapist and/or aquatic exercise instructor are on duty during pool hours.
When are classes?
Aquacize members may use the pool Monday-Saturday during posted hours. Use the "Aquacize Program Forms" button for the information sheet with class times or call the Pool Office at (203) 741-3440.
How can I join?
For membership information use the "Aquacize Program Forms" button for program information, a Physician Approval form and a Consent to Participate form. Please bring the completed forms with you to your first class. For other questions call the Pool Office at (203) 741-3440.