Ramps For Wheelchairs at Home
The inclusion of ramps for wheelchairs in the home is an excellent idea for any home with someone who is using a wheelchair or scooter. They allow them to easily move around their house and go out in the community.
If you take into consideration a few factors like the slope, length, and style of the ramps that you are considering purchasing it is easy to make a decision. The right ramp to purchase will ensure that it's safe and secure for use.
Portable
Ramps can help people who use wheelchairs to negotiate obstacles. There are many different types of ramps including permanent and temporary ones. The most appropriate choice for you will depend on your specific conditions and the surfaces on which you intend to use the ramps. You should also think about the slope, weight capacity, and safety features such as side rails or non-slip surfaces. You can speak with accessibility experts and healthcare professionals to help you choose the right ramps.
Portable ramps are typically made of light materials, which makes them easy to transport or lift. When not in use, they can be folded for easy transportation and storage. They have a gradual slope that allows wheelchairs over barriers or height variations like steps or curbs. They can be used indoors or outside, and many come with safety features to prevent accidents and falls.
There are portable ramps available in local accessibility equipment stores, medical supply shops, and online solution providers. You can also search for the options available at hardware or construction stores that carry mobility equipment and often have ramps that are suitable for various purposes. Local disability organizations are a great resource for finding ramps, as they have many relationships with suppliers and manufacturers who can offer price-competitive pricing.
If you're trying to ensure your ramp is in line with ADA standards, you should look for one that is compliant with the latest accessibility guidelines. It should be at minimum 36 inches wide to provide room for the wheels of your chair and other ADA-compliant items like handrails. Choose a ramp that has an even surface and is compatible with your scooter or wheelchair. If you're required to drive your van when the ramp is in place, opt for an adjustable wheelchair ramp that can be retracted or extended to meet your vehicle's height requirements.
Modular ramps are a fantastic option for homes as they can be broken into sections that can easily be assembled on-site. They're typically made of aluminum, which provides strength and durability while still being light. You can also find modular ramps with an edging to assist in traction, as well as a toe guard to protect your feet. You can choose either a concrete or wood ramp if you're looking for an option that is more durable. They're typically built on-site, and you'll likely need a building permit to construct them. They're an excellent option if you want to avoid the hassle of fixing or replacing damaged ramps.
Semi-permanent
If You Are Planning To Use A Ramp Temporarily
If you plan on using your wheelchair ramp for a short amount of time, like in the recovery process from an injury or surgery and you need a temporary, portable folding ramp is the ideal option. This kind of ramp is lightweight and folds for easy transportation and is easily placed on a curb or doorway to aid you in getting into your car or up the steps at home. It's also a great option if you plan on traveling with a mobility device since you can here bring it with you wherever you go.
Another good option for people who don't intend to use their ramp for a long time is a semi-permanent modular ramp. They are different than portable ramps because they typically have an tongue and groove system to connect the sections of the ramp to each other. This allows them to be disassembled and reassembled quickly. They are often made from aluminum which makes them tough and weather-proof and typically come with a 1-year warranty. Modular ramps are available in different lengths and slopes, to meet the needs of different users.
Conditions of Long-term or Progressive Recovery
If you need a wheelchair ramp for longer time, then a semi-permanent option is likely to be the best fit for your home. They tend to be more durable than temporary ramps, since they are intended to be used for a longer duration. They're generally more expensive than temporary and portable ramps, but they are an extremely solid and sturdy solution for your wheelchair or mobility scooter to use when you need it.
A telescoping ramp or adjustable ramp is an option for semi-permanent ramps for accessibility. Both are similar in that they have sections that allow the ramp to be extended for better accessibility. They can be folded in half or quarters to make them more convenient to store and transport than full-length ramps for wheelchairs. The safety edges are often constructed to be contrasted in color to the main surface to improve visibility. This is crucial in the event that the ramp is utilized in public areas.
If you're in search of an all-weather ramp for your home you should talk to a home modification contractor. They can assist you in determining the type of ramp that is suitable for your requirements and ensure that it meets local codes and ADA guidelines. They can also assist you with the financial options available for buying a permanent ramp such as a home improvement loan, reverse mortgage or state-based disability grants. This will help you to avoid any unexpected costs. You can also contact your local government to ask if they will assist you in modifying your home to make it accessible.