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@ffm
I'd like to second much of what @ioreka has said. For context I also worked and volunteered for Wheels for Wellbeing (not any more, so comments below my own) and have worked with people with age-related, neurodegenerative diseases.
A brief addition to the falling comments. Falling is a real problem for older people, but the fear of falling (which can often follow a fall) is also a concern. If older people are worried that they will fall in the course of their everyday activities they can get into a vicious circle of:
Fear of falling > less activity > poorer balance and strength > greater likelihood of falling ( > possibly a fall) > greater fear of falling > and so on...
Remaining active is therefore key and cycling certainly won't hurt on this front (but may need supplementing with other exercise as noted). It can also extend people's range for independent active travel, which can help them remain independent. If balance becomes a particular problem then trikes can provide a means for people to get out and about, even if they find walking any distance a challenge.
In terms of cycle choice I won't add much to what's been written above other than to say that customisation of a cycle can be key for people who find riding a stock, off-the-peg cycle difficult. In addition to basic fit (including details like brake-lever reach) and gearing, there is a huge range of accessories and alternative parts that it's worth being aware of as they can make the difference between an enjoyable cycling experience and someone not being able to cycle at all. For example, really short cranks or swing cranks for people with arthritic knees and specialist pedals to help people with limited motor control keep their feet engaged can keep people cycling comfortably long after they might otherwise have given up.