A bunch of aged care residents were treated to a delightful ride that allowed them to feel the wind in their hair last week, but not on a bike – on a specially adapted trishaw!
Not-for-profit organisation, Cycling Without Age, provided residents of Regis Nedlands Aged Care facility with the opportunity to take a spin around Lake Claremont in Western Australia.
The global movement started in Denmark around 10 years ago, with the aim of helping mature aged people remain active and outdoors by providing them with the thrill of a bike ride.
Additionally, older participants are able to engage in social interaction and have a day filled with fun and laughter.
Regis Nedlands General Manager, Sam Waldron, said the initiative was a hit with the residents, who got to experience the physical joy and rush of a bike ride.
“It’s fantastic to see how this initiative is bringing so much joy, not only to our seniors at Regis Nedlands, but to elderly people and those living with disabilities throughout the local community,” explained Mr Waldron.
“It’s also amazing to see how many wonderful volunteers are involved as cyclists or ‘pilots’ and how selflessly they donate their time to enrich the lives of others.
“The entire experience is great fun for those involved and there is so much social interaction that comes with the attention of passers-by during the course of the e-bike ride, as well as between passengers and the pilot which makes it a truly joyful experience for everyone.”
The not-for-profit organisation has over 500 volunteers delivering this valuable service, and their oldest trishaw volunteer is 79!
A fully voluntary movement, the initiative wants to bridge the gap between generations and help prevent loneliness among older people.
Cycling Without Age provides trishaw rides on the first Friday of every month at Wembley, WA, and a trip around Lake Claremont on the second Friday of every month.
