To celebrate International Friendship Day today (30 July), and to highlight the importance of companionship, Lilian Faithful, a charity with over 75 years’ experience of providing care for older people, is shining a light on their cycling project affiliated with the ‘Cycling without Age’ initiative.
The initiative was created to combat loneliness, a prolific issue for those over 75. According to Age UK more than 2 million people in England over the age of 75 live alone, and more than a million older people say they go over a month without speaking to a friend, neighbour or family member.
Cycle rides and care homes might not seem to go hand in hand, but thanks to the trishaw donated to Lilian Faithfull Care from Signal, residents from the care homes are able to rediscover the fun of a bike ride and enjoy time with a friend.
Olive, from Astell House said: “I felt like the Queen! It was wonderful! I saw bits of Cheltenham I’ve never seen before.”
It’s not just enjoyable for the residents though, one member of staff said: “It is such a positive experience and it prompts all sorts of conversations and memories. I always come back from a ride having smiled the whole time.”
As well as bike rides, Lilian Faithfull provides adult day care at their Secret Garden Hub, where guests can go to socialise and make new friends in the local community. They offer activities including singalongs, quizzes, painting and tai-chi. A delicious afternoon tea is on offer, along with lunches - fish Fridays are very popular.
