Recumbent trikes have one more advantage for older riders, those over about 60: It's harder to fall. Most people think the danger of falling in older people is the danger of breaking bones. While that is true, there is another, worse hazard—retinal separation. Broken bones will heal or can be repaired. A separated retina has to be treated immediately, within hours or less, to prevent permanent blindness.

But bents are not just for the older set. I've only been on these forums for a very short time, and I constantly see mention of sore or painful (insert body part here) from younger upright riders. Recumbents are generally easier on the whole musculo-skeletal system regardless of the rider's age, especially when comparing amount of physical stress vs speed. So if you are young and healthy, and want to preserve the latter as you age, consider a recumbent.