Adaptive Recumbent Tandem Bicycle

Individuals with disabilities are more likely to struggle with obesity than individuals without. Historically, people with differences were isolated out of fear, ignorance, or simply because options were not available. The purpose of this blog is to offer insight into ways we can all facilitate for individuals with disabilities and by doing so, we create opportunities for socialization, interaction and access that did not exist before.
Adaptive bicycle program
One great opportunity is to purchase or rent an adaptive bicycle that allows you to take the individual with challenges out into the community. There are many types of bicycles that allow one to support the individuals (I.e. tandem bikes, wheel chair bikes, recumbent bikes, tricycles, etc.).
In our area, there are many bike paths that allow us to take individuals out into the community. Over time, we have seen the benefits from time spent on bicycles. Students with severe challenges are more aware of their surroundings, their motor coordination, self-advocacy and motivation has increased; their escalations have decreased.
Presently, our class is attempting to purchase an adaptive recumbent tandem bicycle. Adaptive bikes are not cheap and can run into the thousands of dollars. Donations can sometimes be found. In our case, we rely on the community, business and parents to help us with our program needs (www.donorschoose.org/dragula).

Another option is to find a local agency that rents or provides adaptive bicycles to families (i.e. Bay Area Outreach Program, www.BORP.Org).
Being on a bicycle is a great opportunity for individuals with and without disabilities. As a teacher, I have experienced being able to sync with students while riding a bike that was not possible without the bicycle. The big smile on the students face, the feeling of wind, the smell of sage, the sound of ducks quacking are all sensations that you can’t replicate in a secluded classroom or home.
Another advantage to riding a bicycle is not only the opportunities it brings to the individuals with challenges, but also the opportunities it brings to the care giver or facilitator. Many individuals who provide care can easily become trapped by their sense of responsibility and fall into a state of depression from lack of exercise. Designing activities that help people to move and integrate can be healthy for everyone involved.