Boise Seniors Relive Bike Riding Memories with Unique Program
May 26, 2026
Seniors at a Boise living facility are rediscovering the joy of cycling, thanks to a unique three-wheeled passenger bike maneuvered by their director.
Credit: @theblessingbike on Facebook
Residents of Table Rock Senior Living are once again experiencing the thrill of cycling along the Boise River Greenbelt aboard “The Blessing Bike,” thanks to the efforts of Joel Freston, the facility’s executive director.
Carol Montgomery, a 90-year-old resident, fondly recalls her cycling days. “I love riding a bike,” Carol expressed to KTVB 7, her enthusiasm evident.
Carol and her spouse, who recently joined the community, were instantly drawn to the bike displayed in the lobby, rekindling Carol’s passion for cycling from her younger days.
This initiative took root in Idaho back in 2018, inspired by Rosemary, the 92-year-old mother of Boise couple Wade and Jill Houser, who sought to keep her active within the community. Their efforts birthed a nonprofit, providing these bikes to those unable to ride independently.
At Table Rock, the bike is more than just transport. “Sometimes, I just take it out and put it in the lobby,” Joel shared. “And they’ll come and ask me, ‘Are we ready? Can we do it today?’”
The facility’s location near the river and greenbelt offers an ideal setting for these excursions, allowing residents with mobility challenges to enjoy the outdoors.
“Here at Barber Station we have a lot of residents with limited mobility but still want to get out, and we are right here by the river and the greenbelt,” Joel explained. “They hop on and we go around the river.”
Even during cooler months, Joel improvises by offering indoor rides around the premises.
These outings provide Joel with a deeper connection to the residents, enhancing his role beyond just health and safety. “I know that taking them out, I’m just making their day,” he said. “It brings a lot of meaning to the work I do day after day, and it takes me out of the grind and into the real feelings that our residents have and the joy that we can bring them.”
For Joel, the fulfillment is mutual. “Oh, it’s an honor,” he remarked. “Just to see the smiles and stuff, it just makes my day, and it makes their day and everyone wins.”
Joel hopes this initiative will inspire other Idaho care facilities to adopt similar programs, granting more seniors the opportunity to revisit the joys of biking.
