Fear of water knows no age: He learned to swim at 71

Swimming Dad
Sep 14
3 min read

"I’ve carried the fear of water my whole life… but your story moved me."

That’s what a man told me after seeing my interview on TV. He was 71 years old. A bad experience in childhood. Decades of avoiding pools. But one big wish: to learn how to swim. Not for sport. Not for medals. But to swim, after so many years, with his brother in the sea - and go fishing together again.

This is a story that proves: age is not a barrier. Fears can be overcome. And water - if we approach it with respect and the right mindset - can become our ally.

Fear of water doesn’t choose an age

Many people think fear of water is just a “kid thing.” But the truth is, adults — especially older ones - often carry deep, hidden water traumas. Someone may have pushed them into the water without warning. Left them alone in the shallow end.Joked with them the wrong way.

That was the case with Uncle Milan. One unpleasant childhood moment kept him away from water for life. The fear grew with age - and so did the shame of "not knowing how to swim."

The first step isn’t in water – it’s in your mind

When we first spoke, I wanted him to understand one thing:

The most important thing is not to give up.

We took it slow. His first visit to the pool? He didn’t even get in. We just sat by the edge. Feet in the water. Talking. Feeling the space. Seeing that everything was safe, controlled, and calm.

Next step? He stood on the stairs — in shallow water. That was enough for the first lesson.

The body remembers – but it can also learn

Just like with kids, adults need to feel safe in water.Older swimmers often have reduced mobility or balance, but they have one major strength: determination and awareness.

We started with floating using aids: Kick boards, pool noodles, even arm floaties. Then slowly - without them. Every small step was celebrated. No pressure. Just support.

A swimmer – one year later: One year later, Uncle Milan became a swimmer. Not a professional - but confident in the water. Honestly, some younger people would envy the skills he picked up. Now, he enjoys every moment he gets to swim.

Why am I sharing this?

Because maybe you are a parent who doesn’t know how to swim. Maybe your child looks up to you. If they see you face your fear - they’ll believe they can too.

Maybe you’re 40, 50, or 70 - and think it’s too late.

It’s not.

It never is.

Water doesn’t care about age.

It only cares about one thing: your willingness to trust it.

How can adults overcome fear of water and learn to swim?

Acknowledge your fear – and accept it.
Fear isn’t weakness. It’s a signal you need a different approach.
Start small.
Don’t jump into the deep end. Begin with a shower, then shallow water.
Find an instructor you trust.
Someone who understands adults, doesn’t rush or judge.
Use swim aids.
Kickboards, noodles, even floaties - they’re not just for kids. They’re safety tools.
Stop comparing.
Your journey is your own. Every step forward is a victory.
Set a goal.
Maybe you want to swim with your grandkids. Or enjoy the sea. Let that vision guide you.
Swimming Dad Photo

If you’re a parent who can’t swim - that affects not only you, but also your child’s safety in the water. What will you do if your child falls into the pool and you freeze with fear?

If you’re a grandparent - know this: you can still be a role model. Imagine swimming out to the buoy with your grandchild at 72. That’s a memory they’ll keep for life.

So… if you’re older, if fear is holding you back, but the desire to swim is stronger - that’s enough to start. Find someone you trust, and begin - no pressure.

In water, like in life - the first step matters more than the result.

Life is better when you are swimming!