Are there people who have given up cycling or are considering giving it up because they no longer have the strength/fitness for the cycling routes that they like?

If e-bikes are a way of allowing these people to continue cycling they can only be a good thing.

Cycling should be something to enjoy any way you can.

I'm 72 and have no intention of getting an e-bike............yet. But if it means the difference between riding and not riding then I will definitely get one, and not worry about the disdainful looks from superior cyclists as I keep up with them up the steepest hills, even if they overtake me down the other side.