Combatting Senior Loneliness, One Pedal at a Time

What do a rugged 4x4 and a three-wheeled bike for seniors have in common? More than you'd think. Meet the Grenny, the newest ride bringing freedom and joy to Vancouver's seniors.

One simple gesture. That's all it takes to make a big difference in a senior's life, and in Vancouver, one non-profit is doing its part in helping address the growing issues of social isolation, loneliness, anxiety, and depression among older adults.
It's likely you've already seen them out and about. From May 1 to October 31, volunteers of Vancouver Cycling Without Age Society (VCWAS) can be spotted piloting folks around on trishaws (three-wheel electric assist bikes) offering scenic adventures through False Creek, Jericho Beach, the West End, Stanley Park, Pacific Spirit Park, and beyond.

Who Is Vancouver Cycling Without Age?
Founded in 2018, VCWAS was created to serve seniors who live in long-term care homes, experience social isolation, and face barriers to getting outside. "A lot of seniors go through depression and face serious challenges as they transition into the later phases of life," says Jake Winn, executive director of VCWAS. "As we get older, we often become disconnected. These rides bring back that attachment to the community."

VCWAS runs two types of programs. The first is the partner program, where the team works with care homes and other senior-serving organizations to create a regular ride schedule. The second is the community ride program, which focuses on the vast majority of seniors who live outside of care homes.

"About 95 percent of seniors in B.C. are still living at home and many are receiving care from family members who are also working or raising children," says Winn. "On weekends, we set up in accessible spots in places like Jericho Beach or Pacific Spirit Park, and offer community rides by donation. It's a lovely way to meet someone new or for families to reconnect through something joyful."

The Birth of Grenny
It's a cause that deeply resonates with local business owner Asgar Virji, founder of The Weissach Foundation at Weissach INEOS Grenadier. "As someone with aging parents, I understand how easy it is for older adults to feel isolated," he says. "It's heartbreaking to see how loneliness can creep in. No one should feel that. We often think of aging as a time to slow down, but who says we outgrow our sense of fun and adventure? We all deserve moments of joy, no matter our age."

This shared belief in adventure and dignity has sparked a meaningful partnership between VCWAS and The Weissach Foundation. With sponsorship support from Weissach, VCWAS has named its newest trishaw 'Grenny' in honour of the INEOS Grenadier. The addition allows the organization to offer this experience to even more seniors. In fact, last year, volunteers completed 500 rides, taking over 1,000 passengers on a total of 3,500 kilometres of outdoor journeys. This year, Winn says he is hoping those numbers will triple.

But the partnership is about more than numbers. It reflects a deeper alignment in values.

"The INEOS Grenadier is about opening people up to exploration and helping them escape and discover the world," says Winn. "That's exactly how we see our trishaws - just a little slower and maybe not quite as mountain-ready. But the spirit is the same. We're giving seniors the chance to get out into nature with their loved ones and experience the joy of movement and community. Weissach really gets that."

Keeping the Wheels Turning
Weissach also understands the behind-the-scenes effort that keeps a program like this going. "Buying a bike or a car is one thing," explains Winn. "But keeping it on the road takes ongoing care. Our trishaws run seven days a week for six months, often carrying three people for up to 20 kilometres at a time. That's a lot of wear and tear. There's maintenance, insurance, storage, and logistics, exactly like a car, and Asgar showed up with understanding and real commitment."

These rides often become treasured moments. Some seniors dress up in their Sunday best. Others bring along family members for a multigenerational experience. Facility staff frequently report that residents eat better, socialize more, and, on occasion, even require less medication after just a few outings. The mental and physical benefits of fresh air, movement, and companionship are profound.
Winn recalls one unforgettable moment involving a couple celebrating their 48th wedding anniversary. "The care staff decorated the trishaw and created a parade. The gentleman wore what looked like his original wedding suit. They were glowing. As they rolled through town, people clapped and waved. It was like the whole city was part of their celebration."

The Future for Seniors in B.C.
Winn has big plans to expand VCWAS' reach in the future by creating neighbourhood-based hubs, where volunteers can serve their own communities more easily. "We want every senior in Vancouver to have access to a ride whenever they want one," says Winn. "To do that, we need more trishaws in more places. It's a simple idea, but it makes a huge difference."

Weissach
1757 W 2nd Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1H7
Press Contact: Natalie Bruckner

Loneliness, isolation, and depression weigh heavily on many seniors, but in Vancouver, a simple act of kindness is helping lift that burden. Thanks to Vancouver Cycling Without Age Society's newest trishaw, Grenny, sponsored by The Weissach Foundation, even more seniors are rediscovering a sense of belonging and the thrill of feeling the wind in their hair again.
For those with aging loved ones, it's a powerful reminder that it only takes one caring gesture to bring sunshine into someone's life. Vancouver Cycling Without Age Society is proving that life after 70 can still be filled with adventure, laughter, and connection.

This release was published on openPR.