Selection and training of disabled persons for scuba-diving. Medical and psychological aspects

Sixteen persons with a wide range of disabilities were subjected to a formal scuba-diver training course, after passing a medical and psychological assessment specific for divers. Subjects with brain damage and with impaired bladder and bowel control were included. The current general guidelines for the medical assessment of non-disabled divers appear to be suitable for disabled persons, but additionally each particular disability demands careful individual assessment. Such assessment requires knowledge of diving and rehabilitative medicine and diving practice. The study supports the argument that scuba-diving may improve the physical self-concept of selected disabled persons. It is stressed that specialized diving supervision is essential for such people.