Too old to dive?

[Coldwater_Canuck]

I'm not a doctor, but I'd imagine that as long as you are obviously in good enough shape to deal with the physical aspects of the sport, there'd be little additional risk (like ageing people participating in any other physical activity).

The one risk that probably does increase with age regardless of how good shape you are in is that if you have a non-diving related issue (heart attack, stroke, etc.) underwater, it's going to be a worse situation than had it happened on the surface. But diving has its risks for everyone, this is just one additional one most people would probably accept (although were I a solo diver, I'd probably go back to buddies after 55 or so for this reason).

 

[Jim Ernst]

MR Cousteau was still diving in his 80's if I am right.

Sorry for the spelling of his name, I know it may be wrong.

 

[ArcticDiver]

...

The one risk that probably does increase with age regardless of how good shape you are in is that if you have a non-diving related issue (heart attack, stroke, etc.) underwater, it's going to be a worse situation than had it happened on the surface. But diving has its risks for everyone, this is just one additional one most people would probably accept (although were I a solo diver, I'd probably go back to buddies after 55 or so for this reason).

What does possible collateral damage have to do with age? The fact is that a major malfunction of one of the body's critical functions can have serious collateral effects. How serious depends on the exact circumstances. I'd submit that any of the mechanical malfunctions you mention would have far more serious consequences if they happened on a busy freeway, or maybe on a remote Northern Nevada road.

There is a growing body of evidence that deterioration of the human body is more linked to genetics and lifestyle than age. Further, that it is becoming more apparent that using age as an excuse for poor health or fitness is just that, an excuse that happens to be accepted by much of society. Just because the excuse is accepted doesn't mean it is a valid reason for behaviour.

Don't let any fallacious reasoning stop anyone's enjoyment of any activity.