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Can my loved one continue to bicycle?
My DH has Alzheimer's - probably moving into the beginning of the moderate stage. He has always been a enthusiastic bicyclist, logging 10 miles several times a week in spring, summer, and fall (but not in our midwest winters!). Two years ago we relocated back to our hometown, and between the effort of moving and adjusting, he hasn't ridden since then, especially since our bikes needed a thorough tune-up, which we just completed. Over the past couple years, his ALZ has progressed, albeit slowly. He's in good physical health overall, but he is moving more slowly and cautiously. He hasn't had any falls, but I have noticed he's more tentative going down the stairs, and also when getting in and out of the car. Still, I was surprised when picking up our bikes from the shop after their tune-up, he couldn't throw his leg over the bar & seat as he has always done. (In fact, the bike shop owner expressed to me later that he was concerned by what he observed.)
I've looked at a step-through "low entry" bike model, which is definitely easier to mount and dismount. (I've also looked at adult tricycles, which were harder to manage than I expected!)
But my primary question is how to best get an assessment of whether he has the necessary balance/coordination to continue riding! Has anyone had experience with this?
(We would always ride together in our small neighborhood or on a nearby bike trail, so it's not about wandering.}
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@dlynng
Perhaps get a referral for physical therapy from his Doc, then they can do an assessment using the P/T bikes and other tools or equipment at the site, to ensure he's physically capable and safe before you hit the road.
Good luck! 🚲
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1 ReactionIf he can demonstrate that he can actually still ride a bicycle, why not ride with him (or someone else who rides) for the safety. It doesn't sound like he should be allowed to ride alone.
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1 ReactionWhy not an adult tricycle? You can ride with him on a regular bike. If this works, it is good to have him exercise and still have his enjoyment outside. He will eventually have to give it up, but while he still can...
I just realized you said it has been 2 years since he last rode, and that he is in the moderate stages of AD. The inability to even mount the bicycle is telling and suggests he has some apraxia. While it is worthwhile to evaluate his ability to ride a bicycle now, if he cannot, it is highly doubtful he could "learn" to ride again. Inability to learn is a hallmark of AD. And riding a stationary bike does not necessarily translate to an ability to ride a standart bike. Good luck.
Perhaps see a physical therapist to assess along with help from your physician? My husband has quit riding on his own which I’m kind of happy about.
Sounds kind of goofy, but take a look on Amazon “adult bicycle training wheels”. A neighbor of ours has them on her bike for added stability while riding and easier on/off. A good bike shop could help you choose a model, maybe even order a recommendation and apply them to his bike.
My dad loved biking and went long distances. In his eighties, before they had Apple tags, my mom made him take his wallet. He got turned around once, couldn’t figure out how to get home, rode up to a car dealership, someone there gave him and his bike a ride home in a pick-up. After that, they went together.