“Swimming in cold water as a means of preventing dementia and depression” has just been launched!
We are excited to present a new innovative project aimed at promoting mental health in adults aged 50 and over. Our goal is to explore the positive effects of cold water swimming on the prevention of dementia and the alleviation of symptoms of depression. The main objectives of the project:
To contribute to the prevention of dementia and help combat depression in people over 50.
To create a modern and effective methodology focused on this age group.
To test new approaches that can fundamentally change the way we approach mental health in later life.
To provide professionals—therapists, trainers, and coaches—with a tool that will enable them to work more effectively with adults at risk of dementia or depression.
To share this method across Europe and promote its use in different contexts.
To promote cooperation between different organizations dedicated to improving the lives of the older population.Who is the project intended for:Professionals who work with adults – e.g., psychologists, healthcare professionals, social workers.
The general public, especially adults aged 50–70 who are at increased risk of depression.Partnership for cooperation in the field of sport within the Erasmus+ program – 101133918
Regular swimming for seniors
Group swimming lessons under the supervision of a coach
50 CZK/lesson
Pool admission included in the price
Swimming equipment rental
Qualified coaches with swimming coach certifications
YMCA Sports Center, Na poříčí 12, Prague 1
Tuesdays 9:00–9:45 a.m.
Swimming is the most natural form of exercise for the body and not only improves mobility but also clears the mind.
Health insurance companies may contribute to the cost of lessons.
More information HERE
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The COL.D.D Project Kicks Off in Brussels on March 22, 2025, the international COL.D.D project officially launched with its first meeting in Brussels, bringing together partner organizations from Italy, Belgium, Croatia, Austria, Greece, and the Czech Republic.The project’s main objective is to promote a healthy lifestyle through cold water swimming, exploring its potential as a tool for preventing and supporting the treatment of depression and dementia in adults. During this kick-off meeting, participants focused on outlining key organizational steps and began working on the first project output – a practical handbook designed to support the implementation of this innovative methodology. The handbook aims to enhance the effectiveness of activities by engaging target groups and promoting mental well-being and social inclusion through cold water immersion.The next partner meeting is scheduled for July in Zagreb, where the project will move into its practical phase. Participants will gain specific knowledge and skills related to the safe and meaningful application of cold water swimming in mental health contexts.The launch of the COL.D.D project marks an important step towards combining physical activity, mental health prevention, and inclusive community-building. Partners will continue to collaborate closely over the coming months to develop and implement these strategies.
COL.D.D – A New Approach to Mental Health Through Cold Water Exposure From July 12 to 14, 2024, the kickoff training for the COL.D.D project – Cold Water Swimming for the Prevention of Dementia and Depression – took place in Zagreb. This initiative aims to promote inclusion and diversity by engaging isolated adults, particularly from vulnerable groups, in outdoor activities.The project focuses on encouraging a healthy lifestyle through cold water swimming and exploring its benefits in preventing and alleviating symptoms of mental health conditions such as depression and dementia. Its goal is to unify existing cold exposure methods and transform them into practical frameworks that allow professionals to conduct safe training sessions. In addition, the project seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of this method, raise awareness, educate the public, build support networks, and collaborate with local communities to promote healthier living.The three-day training brought together project managers, psychologists, and swimming instructors from Belgium, Italy, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Croatia. Led by experienced trainers, the program combined both theoretical and practical activities. Participants began with a guided tour of the Faculty of Kinesiology in Zagreb, followed by expert presentations on topics such as:
– “The Science of Cold Exposure: Physiological and Psychological Effects”
– “The Power of Cold in Practice: Using Cold Water Exposure”
– “Mental Strength: Building Psychological Resilience Through Cold Training”
Attendees also had hands-on opportunities to experience the benefits of cold water therapy themselves, through practical lessons and detailed safety instructions for entering cold water – even for complete beginners.Following the training, these techniques will be gradually implemented across the partner countries among adults over 50 who are at risk of dementia or depression.More information about the COL.D.D project and its future activities can be found on the official website or on our social networks.
