In order to help your wheelchair bound elderly loved one navigate their home easily you will need to look into installing a wheelchair ramp. There are a number of different ramp options ranging from portable to custom built wood ramps. It’s easy to get confused as to which ramp is best for your senior. Each ramp offer different features. Maybe your loved one needs a portable ramp for traveling or maybe they would like a nicely painted ramp conveniently located on the side of the house. Their needs are the deciding factor as to which ramp you’ll want to invest in.
Threshold ramps are simple to install ramps for door openings and single steps. They are used to make entry ways more convenient sitting against doorsills for a smooth ground to sill transition. They are sturdy rubber structures, most with non-skid surfaces. On average they hold up to 800 lbs and are lightweight for easy portable use. For customization these ramps can be trimmed to fit a desired doorway.
Believe it or not there is a ramp compact enough to be called a suitcase ramp. Suitcase ramps tightly fold and are easy to carry. Their length allows easy access into most minivans. These ramps can support up to 800 lbs and are approximately six feet in length. Perfect for the senior on the go, the suitcase ramp is easy to load and unload and also easy to store. They open in two halves and are carried with a handle on each half. Not only do they offer access for wheelchairs, but scooters and walkers as well.
Much like suitcase ramps, trifold ramps are foldable and easily portable. They are commonly used to help seniors in and out of vans. They offer easy access for scooters and walkers as wells as wheelchairs. Depending on the angle needed, these types of ramps come in 5-10 feet long. They can be used for stairs, decks, vans, minivans, over uneven ground, and more. When shopping for portable wheelchair ramps look for carrying features, non-skid surfaces, and edges running along the sides for added safety. Also be sure to purchase a ramp with a manufacturer’s warranty.
Modular wheelchair ramps are commonly seen at places of business for handicap access needs. They are easy to configure to a home or business and can be used by wheelchair users, scooter users, and as a step-free solution for those who need assistance walking. These ramps can be a temporary or permanent feature. They can be set up in under an hour and are easy to put together.
Most ramps come with factory warranties and are guaranteed to last for a specified number of years. Look for ramps made from non-rust metals for years of use. Make sure that your senior’s ramp has a non-slip surface. If you are custom building a ramp, be sure to give plenty of room for maneuvering. Also remember to lay down a non-slip surface and install handrails.
