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Assessing dive fitness in individuals with autism spectrum disorder
Abraham L Querido1,2, Thijs T Wingelaar2,3
1 Praktijk Querido, Hilversum, the Netherlands
2 Dutch Society of Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
3 Royal Netherlands Navy, Diving Medical Center, Den Helder, the Netherlands
Corresponding author: Dr Abraham L Querido, Praktijk Querido, Veerstraat 25, 1211 HJ Hilversum the Netherlands
ORCiD: 0009-0001-1988-0832
Keywords
Fitness-to-dive; Mental health; Psychiatry; Scuba
Abstract
(Querido AL, Wingelaar TT. Assessing dive fitness in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine. 2025 30 September;55(3):254−261. doi: 10.28920/dhm55.3.254-261. PMID: 40986921.)
Scuba diving requires situational awareness, cognitive flexibility, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. For individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), these demands may pose unique challenges due to differences in executive functioning, sensory processing, and social cognition. This article explores the key considerations in assessing fitness to dive in individuals with ASD, including the impact of comorbidities, medication use, and cognitive abilities on diving safety. To provide a broader perspective, we examine research on ASD and high-risk activities such as driving, where similar cognitive and decision-making challenges exist. Additionally, we discuss the role of neuropsychological assessments in evaluating a diver’s cognitive fitness and the limited but emerging evidence on scuba diving interventions for individuals with ASD. While ASD is not an absolute contraindication to diving, a careful, individualised assessment is essential to determine suitability. This review aims to provide guidance for diving professionals and medical examiners in making informed decisions regarding ASD and scuba diving.
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