How does age affect dive planning and safety?

Age has a significant impact on dive planning and safety due to its influence on metabolism and various risk factors. As individuals age, physiological changes can alter how the body reacts to pressures and environments associated with diving. For instance, older divers may experience slower metabolism, which can affect the elimination of nitrogen from the body and therefore influence the risk of decompression sickness.

Additionally, age can affect a diver's cardiovascular health, lung function, and overall physical fitness, all of which are critical while diving. With increasing age, the likelihood of having comorbid conditions, such as arthritis or cardiovascular issues, rises, which can further complicate dive planning and execution. Therefore, understanding these factors is essential for ensuring safety and making informed decisions about dive profiles, equipment, and preparation for emergency situations.

This understanding emphasizes the need for proper assessment of individual fitness and health conditions in older divers to tailor dive plans that ensure safety and mitigate risks effectively.