How can I teach my 52 year old mom to swim?

Question

She hasn't learned, and I'd like to teach her some (at least) basics so she doesn't drown some day! She's a bit afraid of deep water, so any tips would be nice to help her get over it. She clings to floaties, and forgets to stand up in shallow water :P

Answer 1

Throw her in the deep end.

Answer 2

"Forgets to standup" sounds like a basic problem to deal with.  Normally you practice kicking to build strength while hanging on to the side of the pool and use a kickboard to support the front end while learning kicking.   In a pool that has an end about waist deep, you hold her at the hips while she practices the arm strokes.  

It can be very hard to teach a parent or other unwilling adult, which is why there are Water Safety Instructor classes from the Red Cross for you.   Ask at schools, rec centers, Y's, etc. for classes for older adults and seniors.

Answer 3

I doubt you'll have much success unless she WANTS to learn.

You could possibly check into enrolling her in a class at the local recreation center or somewhere similar. It might also make her feel more comfortable to attend classes with others in her age group. Good luck!

Answer 4

lol. take her to a place where they give swimming lessons. Or just get her in the water and start of with floating, dog paddle. ect...

Answer 5

Get her swimming lessons. =.=

Answer 6

By this age she would have accumulated a lot of phobia of water, and she needs either a one-on-one coaching or join a mini-adults swim group. From experience, it is extremely difficult for family members, close friends or relatives to teach. Strangers do a far more effective job.

However, if you, a friend or neighbour has a small pool with waist-high water, that would be great to save on coaching fees.  For stronger motivation, get some small children who are swimmers and one or two other adult learners to join in. Ensure your mom uses a tight-fitting pair of goggles to start with, and avoid the use of floats or kickboards for faster progress.  Get her to hold her breath, place her head in the water and blow out bubbles. Do a simple front floating, learn hand sculling and how to get up to a squatting or standing position.

The rest of swimming is easy. Do these initial confidence building and phobia-killing steps first. Encourage her that once she is determined to learn, she can do it within 6 to 8 sessions and she can go for river, sea cruises, holidays with a great peace of mind!!  Best of luck!

Answer 7

WOW!!