If you ask Extendicare York residents and team members what their favourite activity to do together is, the answer will be taking the Trishaw outside for rides in their community as part of the Cycling Without Age program.
One resident in particular, Frances, always looks forward to her turn to go for a ride. “I absolutely love going on rides in our community. I always get to see different kinds of animals – everything from dogs to racoons!” she says.
The program enables residents to enjoy the outdoors from the safety of a Trishaw, which 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 and is operated by a team member who is trained to operate or ‘pilot’ the trishaw. Rides are offered to residents throughout the summer months.
“I look forward to summer every year because our residents and team members can start to take the Trishaw out on rides. I love feeling the wind in my hair and the fresh air in my lungs,” Frances says. “It is always quite exhilarating! Even though I have been going on rides for two years, I still feel excited when we are about to turn a corner”.
Resident Program Manager Kailey says that it isn’t just the residents who benefit from the Cycling Without Age Program.
“The impact this program has had on our whole home, including our team members, is incredible. It provides an opportunity for residents and team members to spend time together, outside of the home, and learn things about each other. It helps them form a deeper connection,” she says.
For Frances, she enjoys riding the Trishaw with Lacey, the Certified Activity Aide who works on Frances’ floor. “It’s really something to be able to spend that time together with Lacey. We always have so much fun together!” she says.
As many Extendicare York residents were born and raised in Sudbury, the Cycling Without Age program is a great way for them to get back into the community.
“A lot of our residents have said that the routes take them to places that remind them of their childhood. This is especially impactful for our residents who are living with dementia as it brings back the joys from their childhood for them” Sierra, Extendicare York Infection Prevention and Control Manager says.
“It is so obvious how much everyone enjoys going for rides in our home. I love hearing stories from my friends about their rides, and seeing the smiles on their faces,” says Frances. “I already can’t wait for next year!”
