According to the Divers Alert Network (DAN), the group of not-for-profit societies formed to create a worldwide network of 24-hour diving hotlines to improve safety in diving, a diver is considered older if they are above 50 years of age. Obviously, DAN may have a different definition of “older” than most people, but for the sake of safety, divers over 50 may need to look at diving safety from a different perspective than those under 50. If you plan to learn how to scuba dive in Roatan and you’re over 50, read this article to help ensure your diving safety.

The fact is that in this day and age, there may be more divers over the age of 50 than under. Part of this is due to the popularity of diving these days, part has to do with the amount of disposable income that older divers have and the fact that the costs of diving have risen to the point that many younger enthusiasts may not be able to dive as much as they wish. Thankfully, Roatan is one of the worlds best value destinations for diving. Our beaches are lined with dive shops and people of all ages flock here to explore our beautiful reef.

That said, there is no set age limit whereupon a diver is not allowed to dive just because of their age. In fact, there are dive courses specifically created to be inclusive for people of all ages regardless of gender, weight or skill level. All divers must answer a medical questionnaire before taking a course and if they have cardiac, pulmonary, or metabolic problems, they may require permission from a doctor before they should be allowed to dive. But, this really has little to do with how old you are.

Preparing to Dive

There used to be a stigma against older divers and many experts advised them not to dive. However, studies have since shown that age alone should not be a limiting factor when deciding whether someone can or should dive. Issues such as carbon dioxide retention in the lungs have been found not to be age-related. Other concerns that may affect older divers such as sight problems can be corrected with contact lenses or prescription masks. Those with slower metabolisms may be more susceptible to hypothermia, but that can be mitigated by wearing a warmer diving suit. The fact is, with water making divers more buoyant, diving is a healthy sport for those with bone or joint problems.

Scuba Diving Precautions

It’s true that with age comes a higher risk of heart and lung problems, increased blood pressure and metabolic disorders. For this reason, older divers who have these medical conditions or any doubt about their fitness should consult a knowledgeable physician. Ultimately it is the responsibility of the individual diver to ensure that there are physically fit enough to partake in the sport. When you choose to scuba dive in Roatan, the last thing you want is to have your holiday ruined with a serious accident. So, if you feel at all hesitant, consult a knowledgeable medical professional.

But age alone? That’s no barrier. Just ask Ray Woolley A 95-year-old British veteran of World War Two who broke his own record this September as the world’s oldest scuba diver after taking the plunge to explore a shipwreck off Cyprus.