Ramps For Wheelchairs at Home
Ramps for wheelchairs at home are a great addition to any home with a person who uses the wheelchair or scooter. They allow them to move throughout the house and within the community.
When you consider a few factors like the length, slope and design of the ramps you are purchasing it is easy to make a choice. The right ramp will make sure that it is safe to use.
Portable
If you are a parent or loved one who is using wheelchairs, having ramps at home can make it easier for them to get around obstacles. There are several different types of ramps available, including permanent or temporary ones. The ideal ramp for you will depend on the specific conditions and the surfaces you intend to use. You might also want to consider a specific slope and capacity for weight, as well for safety features like side rails or non-slip surfaces. It's often an excellent idea to speak with accessibility experts and healthcare experts to help you choose the right ramps for your requirements.
Portable ramps are typically made of lightweight materials, making them easy to carry or lift. They can also be folded when not in use, making them ideal for transport and storage. They have a gradual incline that allows wheelchairs to over come obstacles or height differences like steps or curbs. They can be used indoors or outdoors, and come with safety features that help to avoid accidents and falls.
There are portable ramps available in local accessibility equipment stores and medical supply shops and online solution providers. You can also search for the options available at hardware or construction stores that carry mobility products, as they often offer ramps that are suitable for various purposes. Local disability organizations are also an excellent source for ramps, since they have many connections and partnerships with suppliers and manufacturers who can offer price-competitive pricing.
If you'd like your ramp to meet ADA standards, make sure it's compliant with current accessibility guidelines. It should be at minimum 36 inches wide to provide room for the wheels of your chair, as well as other ADA-compliant accessories such as handrails. Also consider a ramp with a smooth surface compatible with your wheelchair or scooter. If you'd like to be able to enter your van with the ramp in place consider an telescoping ramp that is able to be extended or retracted to meet the vehicle's height requirements.
Modular ramps can be easily assembled on site. They can be easily dismantled into sections. They are typically made of aluminum, which provides durability and strength while remaining light. You can also find ramps that are modular and have a textured surface to help with traction, aswell with a toe guard for added protection. You can pick concrete ramps or a wood ramp if you want a more permanent option. They are usually built on-site and will require a building permit. They're an excellent option to avoid the hassle of repairing or replacing damaged ramps.
Semi-permanent
If You Plan To Use A Ramp Temporarily
If you plan on using your ramp for a short amount of time, for instance during recovery from an injury or surgery and you need a temporary, portable ramp that folds is the best choice. This kind of ramp is lightweight, can be folded for easy transport, and can be installed at a doorway or curb to help you get into your vehicle or over the threshold at your home. It's also a great choice for those who plan to travel with a mobility device because you can take it with you wherever you go.
Semi-permanent ramps can be a good alternative for those who do not plan to use the ramp for a very long time. These are a little different than ramps that are portable in that they usually have the tongue and groove system that allows you to attach the sections of the ramp to each other. They can be easily disassembled and then reassembled. They are usually made of aluminum, which makes them durable and weather-proof and typically come with a 1-year here warranty. Modular ramps are available in a variety of lengths and slopes to meet different requirements.
Conditions of Long-term or Progressive Recovery
Semi-permanent ramps are a great option for homes that require a wheelchair access ramp for a longer time. These are generally more robust than temporary ramps, as they are specifically designed to last for more time. These ramps are usually more expensive than portable and temporary ramps. However, they offer an extremely solid, sturdy solution for your scooter or wheelchair.
Some alternatives for semi-permanent ramps are the telescoping ramp and an adjustable ramp. They are similar to the other options in that they both have sections that allow them to expand outward to make them more accessible. They can be folded in half or quarters to make them easier to transport and store than full-length ramps for wheelchairs. They're usually constructed with safety edges that differ in color with the main surface of the ramp to provide added visibility, which is crucial if you're going to be using the ramp in public spaces.
If you're looking for an enduring ramp that can be installed in your home, then you should work with an skilled home modification contractor. They can advise you on the best type of ramp for your needs and make sure that it is compliant with local codes and ADA guidelines. They can also assist you with the financial options available for purchasing a permanent ramp like a home renovation loan reverse mortgage, or state-based disability grants. You will be able to avoid any unexpected costs. You can also check with your local government to find out whether they will assist in modifying your house for accessibility.