In response to the growing numbers of adaptive divers around the world, a large number of training agencies recently came together to discuss how to meet the needs of the adaptive diving community.
The seminar was held under the auspices of DEMA and included representatives from the following organizations:
- Disabled Divers International (DDI)
- Handicapped Scuba Association (HSA)
- Rebreather Association of International Divers (RAID)
- Scuba Diving International (SDI)
- Scuba Schools International (SSI)
- National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI)
During the seminar, participants addressed multiple issues face by adaptive divers including:
- Cognitive Conditions: the various approaches taken by agencies to deal with divers suffering from PTSD, autism, and brain injuries.
- Tribal Knowledge: with so many diverse conditions to deal with a diverse amount of knowledge and experience, the panel addressed how participants can reach out to the community for information on how to deal with an adaptive diver’s unique issues.
- Dive Operators: many operators have issues and concerns about adaptive diverse. For instance what to do with divers who were certified before their injury who may not have had any additional training. Other issues include how to best manage safety and limiting liability.
