How do people manage swimming when using crutches or walking aids?

[ChillingWithMySnowmies]

This is probably going to sound like a daft question.. but if you use walking aids and go swimming, how do you navigate changing, walking to/from the pool and getting in/out of the pool?

I haven't been since i started using double crutches, and i want to start going again. When i used just a single stick, i left it on the benches by the steps with my towel, but i was a bit more mobile then, and ok to get out the pool and limp over.. now i worry i will struggle.

I use crutches due to arthritis in my right hip, neuropathic issues with my left leg and foot, and issues with my lower spine, all of which mean i can sometimes faceplant if i'm not careful.

the pool is accessible, but i also don't want to make a song and dance about getting in/out.

Just the same as with your stick. Leave at side of pool ..( out of way from other people tripping on them). I use a stick..sometimes crutches.. my daughter uses electric wheel chair.. she leaves in the buggy/ pram space and transfers to crutches and leaves side of pool.
We have been asked if we would like the harness/ any help.. but we manage to the roman steps with hand bars.

Speak to your local pool and see what assistance options they offer.
Depending on how much of a song and dance you need, ours offers anything from a lifeguard giving you a steadying hand walking round the pool, to 'buddy swimming' where there are volunteers in the water too who can help. There is also a hoist for anyone who finds the steps too tricky.

I'm a wheelchair user who can walk a few shakey steps.

If it's a pool with stairs I usually wheel myself over to them, take one or two steps down and then sit and sort of float off into the water. Someone else will then take my chair out of the way. Getting out I could usually use the rail to pull myself to standing and get right into my chair.

If it's the type with a ladder only then I'll use the wheelchair hoist to get in and out as I don't have the strength to climb it.

One guy used to leave his leg and crutch on the bench at the end of the pool. A couple of people at my current pool leave their sticks by the wall near the edge of the pool.

Some pools have hoists to help disabled swimmers in/out of the pool. There might be a wheelchair to use, too. One pool I worked in had sessions for disabled users twice a week.

I'd ask your local pool staff - it's going to depend on whether you can walk at all without your crutches, how the changing areas, pool, etc are arranged, and the distances.

I would go in and ask at reception, you can liaise with them about what would be most helpful for you.

I swim regularly and I have only ever needed to do 'single stick' but I know the lifeguards help people with more limited mobility at my pool.

Our local pool has mental steps down instead of a ladder. When I broke my ankle, I used crutches to the top of the steps, you hold of the rail, then passed crutches to a life grard/staff member who put them on the bench. At the end I just waved and they got them for me again. I was offered been hoisted in, which I didn't end up needing, but would be another option if you need it. Best bet is just ring the reception desk and ask what assistance they can offer, they will have a set procedure for less mobile clients.

Our pool only has the ladder, it isnt the easiest to get back up from memory
I think im most worried about that side of it.

Might do what Bestinshow suggested and go have a chat with them about options
Thanks everyone.