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Health Benefits of Scuba Diving for Seniors

Health Benefits of Scuba Diving for Seniors

Written by Leisure Pro Staff
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Published on April 23, 2016

You can’t teach an old dog new tricks…or can you? If you’re an older diver considering hanging up your fins, or a person of a “certain age” who thinks they’re too old to start diving, you may want to reconsider. There are plenty of health benefits of scuba diving for seniors, and a moderately active older person can take advantage of them all.

Scuba is an excellent low-impact aerobic activity, offering all the cardio benefits without the potential joint damage. This can improve circulation and reduce your blood pressure. Studies show that people who dive regularly have less risk of heart attack or stroke. Saltwater has been shown to have a natural healing effect on the body, and the slow breathing taught in diving can have a therapeutic and relaxing effect on the mind.

While a gradual decrease in lung function is a normal part of the aging process, it is not significant enough to affect scuba diving. Research using hyperbaric chambers to simulate pressure at depth has shown little to no difference in the way a younger diver’s lungs respond versus an older diver.

One concern for older drivers is carbon dioxide retention. Studies have shown that, while those of advanced age do tend to retain more CO2 at depth than at the surface, the amounts were not considerably larger than their younger counterparts.

On the practical side, consider starting with shallow shore dives before working your way up to deeper charter boat trips. Accept that you may need someone to help you with your tanks or other heavy gear. Some charter companies cater to physically challenged divers, so research which ones have boats that are easy to get in and out of, or on-board helpers who can assist with these tasks. If you’re new to diving, find an instructor you’re comfortable with and who supports your goals no matter what your age.

Still in doubt? Legendary underwater filmmaker Stan Waterman didn’t retire from the sport until a few years ago, at age 90. And perhaps you’ve heard of a fellow named Jacques Cousteau? He dove nearly until his dying day at age 87. While there are a few health issues any diver must take into consideration, the number of candles on your birthday cake generally isn’t one of them. With all the health benefits in senior scuba diving, don’t let your age be the only thing keeping you out of the water.

Leisure Pro Staff

Leisure Pro Staff

Marketing Director for LeisurePro