If you have mobility issues or if you are restricted to a wheelchair, a swimming pool is a great place to comfortably spend time and work out. However, you will have to make modifications to your swimming pool so that it can accommodate you while also being safe for everyone else. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Modify the pool's entry points

So that you can safely and conveniently enter your swimming pool, you need to modify its entrances. If you have a manual chair that can get wet, you can add sloped entrances that allow you to roll your chair partially into the water and then float out of the chair into the water. These entrances also work if you can walk short distances -- however, in that case, you need to add side rails next to the slope.

Alternatively, you can add transfer lifts. These are basically chairs that you slip into and then they mechanically lower you into the water.

2. Create clear paths around the pool and its entry points

You may need to modify the width of your pool deck to make sure you can easily get around the pool while in your wheelchair. Keep this in mind as you modify your pool's entry points as well. You need to be able to get your chair into these areas and ideally be able to turn it completely around so you can get the angles you need.

3. Add anti-slip traction strips around the pool

To keep your wheelchair from accidentally rolling into the pool, make sure you keep the deck around the pool as safe as possible. Consider laying new cement or another material that will provide traction. Alternatively, add traction strips to your existing groundcover.

4. Modify the latch on your gate

In order to be compliant with pool fencing regulations, your pool fence needs to have a latch that is out of reach of children. In most cases, this latch needs to be located about 150 cm off the ground. If you have trouble reaching the latch from your wheelchair, talk with your local council about giving you an exception to that rule or talk with a fence contractor about modifying your latch so you can reach it while still staying compliant.

For more ideas on what techniques or products you should use to make your pool more accessible, contact a swimming pool contractor. They can help you modify your existing pool or build a new one.