Aquatic Therapy: Still Moving Strong at 86 with the AAPT Reset Method

When Don was referred to Athletic Advantage Physical Therapy by his physician for aquatic therapy, he wasn’t just looking for exercises and pain relief—he was looking for hope. At 86, he wanted to know if it was still possible to move better, stay active, and feel confident in his body.

Through aquatic therapy and the personalized approach of the AAPT Reset Method, Don’s journey became a powerful reminder: age does not define your potential. Even with a complex medical history, Don’s story shows that better movement is possible at any age with the right care.

Active Aging Means Moving Smarter

Don has always loved staying active, especially in the water. Waterskiing was part of his life for decades, and even at 86, he attempted it again. While his grip strength and control had changed, his mindset had not—he showed up and gave it his best effort.

This mindset is exactly what aquatic therapy supports: meaningful, confident movement in a safe, low-impact environment tailored to your body’s needs.

A Medical History Many Seniors Recognize

Over the past several years, Don experienced multiple surgeries, neurological events, joint replacements, fractures, cardiovascular procedures, illness, and trauma.

It’s common for individuals with similar histories to ask: “Is it normal that movement feels harder now?”

Yes—but that doesn’t mean improvement isn’t possible.

"Aquatic therapy is not about taking it easy — it’s about moving smarter. The Reset Method in the pool helps patients unload stressed joints, reset dysfunctional patterns, and recover without losing momentum." – Dr. Cody Johnson, DPT

Why Aquatic Therapy Is Different

As we age, the body adapts to injury and illness through compensation, which can affect:

• Balance and stability

• Grip strength and coordination

• Joint mobility and flexibility

• Muscle activation

• Confidence with everyday movement

  
  

Aquatic therapy provides a supportive environment to address these issues safely. The water reduces stress on joints, allows for controlled movement, and enables seniors and active adults alike to regain strength, balance, and confidence.

The AAPT Reset Method Meets Aquatic Therapy

The AAPT Reset Method is designed to help people like Don move better, safer, and with greater confidence. For him, aquatic therapy offered a gentle, supportive way to begin rebuilding strength, mobility, and coordination.

Our approach includes:

• Assessing current movement patterns

• Identifying compensations from past injuries or surgeries

• Restoring joint motion and neuromuscular control

• Improving balance, strength, and coordination

• Supporting independence and active aging

This personalized method respects medical history while still building forward momentum.

Redefining Success in Aquatic Therapy

Success looks different for every patient. For some, it’s returning to a favorite activity. For others, it’s walking confidently, reducing fall risk, or staying independent.

For Don, success means continuing to move, staying engaged in activities he loves, and trusting his body—even when movement looks different than it once did.

It’s Never Too Late to Start Aquatic Therapy

Whether you are recovering from surgery, managing chronic pain, or rebuilding strength after illness, aquatic therapy can improve mobility, confidence, and quality of life. Age is not a barrier—it’s an invitation to reset your movement.

A Message for Patients and Families

Don’s story is a reminder that aging doesn’t mean giving up on movement. With the right plan, guidance, and support, improvement is always possible.

If you or a loved one is interested in aquatic therapy and a personalized approach to moving better at any age, schedule a Reset Session with Athletic Advantage Physical Therapy today.