Electric assist bicycle
Funding provided: $3,000
Physical activity has long been recognized for its benefits, both for physical and mental health. However, for some individuals with progressive diseases, finding a suitable activity or hobby that accommodates their condition can be a real challenge.
That is why the REA Foundation funded the acquisition of an electric-assist bike for the patients at the Centre de réadaptation Lucie-Bruneau (CRLB). This bike provides users with a unique opportunity to engage in physical activity that facilitates active movement with reduced effort. It is particularly well-suited for individuals suffering from weakness in their lower limbs or decreased endurance, such as those with progressive diseases, chronic pain, who have experienced a stroke, or who live with a neuromuscular disease—representing a large portion of the patients at the CRLB.
“Before having this bike, it was quite complicated for our users to try an electric bike. They often had to travel directly to the supplier. This short trial did not allow users to practice and really take the time to get comfortable with the movement as well as the device itself. As has been scientifically demonstrated, neural plasticity plays a significant role in physical rehabilitation.
Having the bike at the Center allows us to practice the movement repeatedly so that both the brain and the user become familiar with this modality, which was not possible before. Moreover, the electric bike becomes a rehabilitation tool that helps work on balance, coordination, lower limb strength, and dual-tasking.”
Billy-Ann Houle-Powers, kinesiologist at the Progressive Diseases Program of the Centre de réadaptation Lucie-Bruneau
Thus, thanks to this initiative, the patients at the CRLB will be able to stay active while respecting their physical abilities.
“The benefits of this funding are significant. In fact, more than 5 programs will be able to use the electric assist bike. It will enable a diverse clientele to maximize their family activities, engage in active transportation, or even pursue a hobby that was previously inaccessible to them due to a lack of endurance.”
Billy-Ann Houle-Powers, kinesiologist at the Progressive Diseases Program of the Centre de réadaptation Lucie-Bruneau
