FEATURE BY KRISTINE ARCHER ACCESSIBILITY AIDS MAKING IT EASIER FOR EVERYONE TO ENJOY POOLS AND SPAS Pool and spa lifts are gaining popularity as the population ages and the benefits of aquatic exercise become more well known. Photo courtesy Aqua Creek Products S wimming and other water aerobic activities have long been acknowledged as excellent ways to stay fit and healthy, no matter the swimmer’s age, fitness level or physical limitations. However, gaining access to pools can create a barrier to the benefits of water activities for the elderly or physically challenged. Thankfully, today’s pool accessory manufacturers are providing several lift options that can help any person, no matter his or her physical condition, to gain access to the benefits of water-based fitness programs. LENDING A HELPING HAND Aqua Creek Products of Missoula, Mon., has been specializing in the manufacture and distribution of assisted access equipment for aquatic environments, specifically aquatic lifts, for more than eight years. “Our lifts are designed to provide those who have mobility challenges access to pools and spas in order to appreciate the benefits of aquatic therapy,” says Bruce Giffin, Aqua Creek’s national sales manager. “Our lifts are constructed of all stainless steel, provide lifting capacities up to 227 kg (500 lbs) and incorporate a rechargeable batteryoperated system to reduce the cost and time of installation. We also offer two completely portable lifts that require no anchoring and can be retrofit to existing ‘Pro Pool Lifts’ already in the field.” S.R. Smith manufactures and distributes a complete line of swimming pool lifts, all designed to facilitate access to swimming and boating facilities. John Caden, the company’s director of pool lifts, says S.R. Smith’s ‘PAL’ and ‘Splash’ series are the company’s best sellers. Both use a linear actuator powered by a rechargeable battery to ensure reliable operation. The ‘PAL’ series of portable lifts require no attachment to the pool deck, and are available in three different versions to accommodate inground and aboveground pools. The company’s ‘Splash’ series lifts 10 ■ Pool & Spa Marketing ■ January 2010 PSM_JAN10.indd 10 12/30/09 8:36:57 AM