The Fluidra Foundation, Fluidra and the Pasqual Maragall Foundation have launched "Unforgettable Pools", a pioneering project aimed at adapting swimming pools to the needs of people with cognitive impairment and advancing knowledge on the benefits of aquatic physical activity.

"Unforgettable Pools": a project to develop swimming pool models adapted to people with cognitive impairment

The initiative is based on a comprehensive transformation of facilities, covering professional training, the adaptation of aquatic activities, improvements to physical spaces and stronger connections with community support networks. Nearly 200 workers -- including instructors, lifeguards and front-desk staff -- will receive specific training to recognise signs of cognitive impairment and improve communication with these users.

Cristina Maragall, President of the Pasqual Maragall Foundation, states: "This alliance with Fluidra and the Fluidra Foundation is a highly valuable step in that direction, as it will allow us to promote a pioneering project to adapt swimming pools and their dynamics to the needs of these groups, turning them into more accessible spaces that support their physical, cognitive, and social well-being. In addition, this initiative will help us generate knowledge and practical tools that will serve as a reference to advance towards more inclusive environments connected to people."

The project will be carried out in Catalonia, with a gradual rollout across between 8 and 10 pilot pools. Based on this experience, practical tools will be developed, such as adaptation guidelines and operational protocols, with the aim of facilitating the replicability of the model in other facilities.

For Xavi Servat, Director of the Fluidra Foundation: "this collaboration enables us to move forward in our commitment to putting water and aquatic environments at the service of people's well-being. Through initiatives like Unforgettable Pools, we want to explore how swimming pools can also become more inclusive environments adapted to the needs of people with cognitive impairment, contributing to improving their quality of life and that of their families."

David Tapias, Innovation Director at Fluidra, adds that "This project will allow us to generate knowledge and advance in the design of pools that increasingly consider the needs of people with cognitive impairment. At Fluidra, we promote the concept of the Positive Pool, a vision that understands the swimming pool as a space that creates a positive impact on health, well-being, and social cohesion."

Thanks to the Pasqual Maragall Foundation's expertise in the field of Alzheimer's and Fluidra's international presence, the objective is to extend this approach internationally, contributing to transforming swimming pools into more inclusive, accessible and community-connected spaces.

As part of this collaboration, Fluidra and the Fluidra Foundation are also joining the Pasqual Maragall Foundation's Patronage Council, strengthening their commitment to Alzheimer's research and to improving the quality of life of those affected.