While beach mats and beach wheelchairs can help us get out to where the fun in the sun is happening, they can't get us into the water to safely, fully enjoy the experience. The next generation of open water accessibility comes from "accessible docks" which allow users of advanced age or handicaps enter the water guided by a ramp with handrails.
The Norwegian company, Marinex, has pioneered this technology and have over 20 "Swimming Rigs" installed in Norway. They are bringing their first international rig to Germany this year and has started marketing them in the US to local governments. For now, if you want to experience accessible open water swimming you'll need to travel to Norway but hopefully that won't be the case for long. Contact your local Parks and Recreations official to share your interest in bringing a Swimming Rig to your open waters!