ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The Nantucket Wheeler program can be beneficial for everyone–from mentally or physically challenged passengers of all ages, to the volunteers themselves.  Thanks to our sponsors and volunteer pedalers who have generously donated their time and money–there is no cost to ride.  Our initial focus will be to re-connect Nantucket’s ‘4th Quartarian’s with the great outdoors,  and the community at large.  With continued community support, we hope to increase our fleet of bikes and number of certified volunteers, so that passengers of all ages have the opportunity to benefit from this extraordinary form of recreational therapy.

All volunteers must be trained according to the Wheelchair Biking Volunteer Training Form Checklist , and log 10 hours of supervised road time before taking out a passenger.  Non-family members and non-authorized caregivers must also submit to a background check and provide 3 island references. Likewise, each passenger must first qualify for the program according to the  Wheelchair Biking Participant Checklist, provide a signed doctor’s approval, submit a signed guardian/caregiver consent form, and sign a waiver.  Please check back here soon for the link to where you can download this paperwork. All participants are required to wear helmets and dress appropriately for the weather.

Outings will be comprised of 3 riders and 3 bike drivers, plus 1 or 2 crossing guards per trip and any friends or family members that may want to accompany the group on their own bicycle. Although we are focusing on the elderly first, because we feel they are the most isolated members of our community, we hope to make the bikes available to other members in the community who might enjoy a ride during non-scheduled times. The schedule or participants have not been determined yet, although we hope it will look something like this:

Monday & Wednesday 9:30-11:30 AM

Possible Objectives:

To improve socialization as evidenced by verbalizing with at least 1 other person in the group during each session.
To improve mood as evidenced by positive comments about riding and by a happy expression.
To increase appetite as evidenced by improved nutritional intake.
To improve sleep as evidenced by reducing nighttime rising.
To improve concentration as evidenced by staying in the group and remaining on topic during discussions.
To improve self-esteem as evidenced by positive descriptions of experience on bike.
Reduce feelings of apathy as evidenced by an expression of looking forward to another ride in the future.

Wheelchair Biking Program: Evidence Based Guideline of Benefits (Summary)

Wheelchair Biking Program: Evidence Based Guideline of Benefits (Full Version)

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An innovative wheelchair biking program designed to re-connect Nantucket's 4th Quartarians with the great outdoors and the community at large.