Summer is here and, while some communities have opted to keep pools closed due to the coronavirus, many are opening with some restrictions aimed at keeping people safe. Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for older adults because it does not place excess stress on the joints. However, is it really safe for older adults to go to the swimming pool when the coronavirus is still a threat?  

Can COVID-19 Be Contracted Through Pool Water?

Knowing that the coronavirus is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets, wondering if the virus can be transmitted by getting pool water into the eyes or mouth isn’t such an odd question. The good news is that experts say there’s no evidence that suggests the virus can be contracted through the water. Part of the reason pool water is safe is that it is treated with chemicals like chlorine and bromine. The chemicals are helpful in destroying viruses and bacteria.  

So, bottom line on pool water, your older family member isn’t likely to get COVID-19 by swallowing pool water or getting it into their eyes or nose. However, that doesn’t mean they cannot catch the virus while in the pool. It is still possible to get it from someone who is in the pool with them and gets too close.  

Social Distancing is Important In and Out of the Pool 

Depending on how popular the pool in your aging relative’s community is, it might not be easy to stay six feet away from other people while in the water. One way it might be easier to practice social distancing is by taking a water exercise class where people are spread out in the pool. In addition, the older adult might consider visiting the pool outside of peak hours.  

When the senior gets out of the pool, they need to remember to practice social distancing. The casual atmosphere and fun of swimming can make it easy to forget and get too close. They should also keep a mask handy and put it on as soon as they are dried off.  

A senior care provider can drive your older family member to the pool and watch over them while they are there. The senior care provider can assist them with getting in and out of the pool safely and ensure they maintain six feet distance from others. A senior care provider can also help them to put their mask back on after getting out of the pool. With a senior care provider and some caution, there’s no reason your loved one can’t enjoy a refreshing dip this summer. 

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Senior Care in Greer, SC, contact Heart of the Carolinas Home Care at 864-991-3116.  Providing Home Care Services in Greenville, Simpsonville, Greer, Anderson, Spartanburg, Mauldin, Seneca, Laurens, Charleston, Columbia and the surrounding areas. 

Sources 

https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2020/coronavirus-public-pool-safe.html?intcmp=AE-HP-LL1 

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/social-distancing.html 

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html 

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Edward Harrison

Founder at Heart of the Carolinas

Edward Harrison founded the Heart of the Carolinas Homecare in 2007 when he saw there was a need for caregivers that provide non-medical home care services, at a price that most people could afford. It was standard in the industry to require hourly minimums and it was common to be assigned a caregiver, not matched with one based on your individual personal needs. Edward understood that to make a successful relationship between caregiver and client, skills were not enough, personality and compatibility plays as much a role as do skills.

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