Government rules regarding social and physical distancing in this time of pandemic mean that many people are experiencing social isolation for the first time. It is uncomfortable. The longing for connection and interaction reflects our most basic human needs.
Our elderly are experiencing the worst of this. With seniors’ homes on lock down many can only view their relatives through a window – if at all. Videoconferencing tools like Zoom and Facebook Live are technologies beyond reach for many.
Someday, the pandemic will end and life will slowly return to normal. People will go back to work, join friends for meals and socialize at soccer practice.
For many of our elderly; however, social isolation began long before the pandemic and will continue after it is over. Care Workers share how some residents have not had a visitor in a decade or longer.
Cycling Without Age Lanark County plans to meet this need by offering our elderly rides in special three-seat, electrically-assisted bikes called “Trishaws”. The opportunities to experience the great outdoors and exchange stories with volunteer “pilots” have been life changing for many.
Thanks to the generous donations of our sponsors we have been able to purchase a promotional trailer for transporting the trishaw between seniors’ homes. We are now fundraising to purchase our first trishaw.
As you can imagine, the COVID-19 virus has put a damper on our discussions with potential sponsors and seniors’ residences. Despite all this, we continue to push forward and are aiming to launch in the fall of 2020.
You can support this effort financially by making a donation or becoming a sponsor. To join the fun become a pilot or become a captain.