Senior citizens are a neglected and forgotten group of society. In retirement homes, they face loneliness and physical inactivity. Many may feel as though the best parts of their lives are now over. But innovator Solfrid Sagstad is combatting this with exercise bikes that take elderly people back to their youth and around the world.“We need to change our mindset regarding how we see and care for our seniors,” Sagstad says.
She is the director of Motitech, an initiative helping seniors become more active. They designed the Motiview, a stationary exercise bike that activates a video projection of places while pedalling. The technology showcases over 1 700 locations from 36 countries. The rider can explore their childhood neighbourhood or meander the cobbled streets of Paris from the safety of their home. “It inspires me every day to see how Motiview has brought life back to so many people,” Sagstad says.
The bikes have been implemented in homes across the world, including North America, Scandinavia, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Not only does the innovation aid in pain reduction and increased mobility and strength, but it counters loneliness as the elderly come together to watch the visuals and discuss their journeys. Motitech also hosts the annual Road Worlds for Seniors event, a global stationary cycling championship. Awards are given to those who’ve cycled the greatest distance, and the teams who’ve offered the most support. “By creating something truly meaningful, technology can have a huge impact on overall wellbeing,” Sagstad says.
Footage by Motitech was used in the creation of this film.
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