Popular vacation activity could pose health dangers and risks for older adults, experts say
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Many travelers and cruise enthusiasts may consider scuba diving a bucket list item during a vacation cruise; But even though experts say the activity is relatively safe, a pair of recent deaths have raised concerns about diving risks for older Americans.
A 64-year-old woman from West Hills, California, died Jan. 26 after going scuba diving off the coast of the Golden State’s Catalina Island, authorities said.
He showed signs of distress during the dive. Los Angeles Times reportedly – and later died in hospital.
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That same day, a 66-year-old man from Waukee, Iowa, died in a diving accident off Florida’s Manasota Key Beach.
He and a diving buddy were out hunting for shark teeth. According to reports – but he never appeared again. His body was found a few hours later.
Although experts say diving is relatively safe, a pair of recent deaths have raised concerns about diving risks for older Americans. (iStock)
Both deaths are under investigation.
There are about 2.5 million scuba divers in the U.S. each year, and serious incidents are rare, according to the Diving Equipment and Marketing Association, a trade group headquartered in San Diego.
Experts say deaths are rare, especially if divers are properly screened, trained and prepared.
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Still, doctors point out that age-related changes can make diving adventures riskier.
The body does not always respond the same way when underwater, and pre-existing medical conditions may become worse while diving. Experts say aging affects many systems needed when scuba diving, and cardiovascular health is one of the most important.
Doctors say the body doesn’t always react the same way underwater. (AP Photo/Chris Gillette)
Cardiac events account for roughly 20% to 30% of diving-related deaths. This likelihood increases in older adults, according to Divers Alert Network, an international nonprofit organization headquartered in Durham, North Carolina. Focused on diver safety and emergency assistance.
Diving medicine specialist Dr. “The basic medical considerations, in my opinion, first and foremost, are cardiovascular health. Pre-dive cardiac screening is important,” said Lara Lambiase. InDEPTH magazine In September 2025.
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“Aging can also reduce lung elasticity, which may become a critical factor.”
Elderly travelers are advised to schedule a medical evaluation before going diving. Evaluation should include a cardiovascular evaluation and a discussion of pre-existing medical conditions.
“Aging can reduce lung elasticity, which may become a critical factor.”
Many older adults struggle with chronic conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure or lung problems, or take medications that can affect effort, hydration or breathing.
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Divers Alert Network’s cardiology advisor, Dr. “Remember that you need to get in shape for scuba diving,” Douglas Ebersole told the same publication last year. “You shouldn’t scuba dive to get in shape.”
Experts say preparation is key and choosing reputable dive operators is essential.
As long as precautions are taken, you can enjoy underwater views. (AP Photo/Catlin Seascape Survey)
Refresher training can be useful even for experienced divers. Reviewing skills such as air management, buoyancy control and emergency procedures can reduce stress and fatigue while diving.
According to the same source, diving physiology researcher Neal W. Pollock said last year: “Seasonal divers who come back after six months and are not ready at all are a big problem.”
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“We don’t always admit that we slip – but we all do it over time.”
Experts recommend staying within conservative depth and time limits, avoiding overexertion, and adding rest days.
The Turks and Caicos Islands, a popular destination for scuba diving, are shown above. “Seasonal divers returning after six months away and not being ready at all are a big problem,” one expert said. (iStock)
They also state that staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol before diving can help reduce fatigue and stress, especially in hot and tropical environments.
Travelers should ensure dive operators carry oxygen and have emergency protocols.
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Finally, experts encourage dating apps.
They recommend people stay close to a diving partner and avoid diving alone.
