Effects of a recreation therapy aquatics intervention: A case study on an older adult with uncontrolled orthostatic hypotension

Abstract

Uncontrolled orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a devastating disorder that affects activity and participation in daily life. The authors report the benefits of a recreation therapy aquatics intervention on a 74-year-old man with longstanding OH refractory to both pharmacological treatment and conventional land-based physical rehabilitation. Through regular participation in aquatic therapy twice a week for 18 months, this individual progressed from being confined to bed to regaining the ability to ambulate short distances on land without the aid of an assistive device and to resume some of his premorbid leisure interests. The patient reports a significant improvement in his quality of life. Aquatic therapy should be considered for individuals with OH refractory to standard medical and rehabilitation interventions.