Residents and team members at Extendicare York were thrilled to celebrate the launch of this year’s Cycling Without Age (CWA) program, an annual initiative that provides bike rides through the community for residents.
“Residents overall thoroughly enjoyed the bike launch and spoke about how great it was to get outside and enjoy the summer months, while connecting with the community,” says Lacey Phillips, Program Manager and Volunteer Coordinator at Extendicare York.
For Mark and many residents, the rides bring back fond childhood memories of biking through their neighborhoods.
“Riding around reminds me of when I was a child and my first Mustang-style bicycle with a banana seat. I remember riding down old mining roads from Copper Cliff to Lively,” says Mark. “My favourite part of the Cycling Without Age program at Extendicare York, is getting outside and discovering parts of Sudbury I never knew existed.”
Mark was thrilled to have the very first ride of the season with the help of Blair Stolove, one of the team members at Extendicare York who is trained and licensed to ‘pilot’ the Trishaw as part of the CWA program at the long-term care home.
The Trishaw combines the look of a tricycle and a rickshaw, and operates with an electric, battery-powered motor. It provides seating and safety belts for two passengers. The CWA program was launched at Extendicare York in 2021 and is one of the innovative ways that Extendicare York is enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Some residents are no longer able to cycle, or may have limited mobility, and with this program, they can continue to enjoy the outdoors, have fun, and feel safe with qualified team members driving the trishaw.
For Jocelyne, it was her first time on a bike in more than twenty years!
“I had more fun than I expected! I can’t wait to explore the community more this summer,” says Jocelyne.
“It’s a special experience for residents, team members and people in the community,” explains Lacey. “When we go for rides around Sudbury, we often pass parks and school yards. When the children and adults in the community wave to us, it is very special for the residents. It makes them so happy.”
Wednesday’s launch comes as Ontario celebrates both Seniors Month and Bike Month in June. Phillips, team members, and residents at Extendicare York look forward to bringing back childhood memories, and going on new adventures, one ride at a time this summer.
