New aquatic therapies for people with intellectual disabilities were highlighted at a recent celebration at Clearwater Beach.

Bermuda Hospitals Board’s Community Intellectual Disability Team highlighted the therapies at its recent Exceptional Fall BBQ Celebration.

“Aquatic therapy is a form of therapeutic exercise done in water,” said Chris Cunningham, CIDT clinical manager. “It is especially beneficial to those with intellectual or developmental disabilities who don’t have access to land based activities.

“We are also exploring some new ground with the aqua therapy happening in the ocean rather than in a regular pool setting.

“Not everyone has access to a swimming pool, so this opens up new possibilities with the added benefit of using the beautiful and unique beaches and ocean that surround the island. This may also give us opportunities for research on using the ocean for this type of therapy.”

Sally Teixeira, CIDT physiotherapist, added: “Aquatic therapy is a safe and effective alternative way for our clients and others with intellectual disabilities to get vitally important physical exercise.

“Here in Bermuda we just love the water. We are so excited to get this new therapeutic option started and to see the benefits for clients who utilise it.”

The Exceptional Fall BBQ Celebration was the second social event the CIDT held this year. In June, to mark the first anniversary of the formation of the team, they held A Fete of Exceptionalities at the Warwick Parish Council Field.