Blog entry by Tanja Sankt
Choosing Portable Ramps For Wheelchair Accessibility
Portable ramps can be an ideal way to help wheelchair users navigate up and down inclines such as steps or curbs. They are lightweight and can be folded or rolled to store.
Discover a variety of ramps available from local accessibility equipment stores or medical supply stores. Online retailers also offer detailed descriptions, reviews, and comparison tools for different ramps.
Folding Portable Ramps
Portable ramps that fold fold up make an extremely convenient wheelchair accessibility solution for wheelchairs. They can be utilized in various locations to help wheelchair users overcome obstacles like curbs, steps, or raised surfaces. They also require much less complicated and expensive maintenance than in-floor ramps which makes them an appealing option for a lot of people.
When selecting a portable folding ramp, there are several things to consider, such as the weight and size of your wheelchair, scooter or other mobility ramps for wheelchairs device and the surface on which you'll use it. The ramp should have an incline that is equal to or slightly higher than the incline of the step or obstruction it is used to cross. If you're unsure of the appropriate height for your needs, consult with healthcare professionals or accessibility specialists for guidance.
Ramps are available in a variety of different designs, styles and capacities that can be adapted to meet your specific wheelchair and mobility needs. From simple threshold ramps made for small doorways to full-length ramps with a single or multi-fold design that can be tucked away in the back of a vehicle wheelchair ramp, there are options to meet virtually any need and budget.
Portable ramps for wheelchairs are typically made of sturdy materials that ensure their durability and strength. They also come with a non-slip surface to reduce the chance of slips and falls in all weather conditions.
The most common portable ramp is the single fold ramp, which is folded and secured in place by a hinge central to the ramp. Some models come with an additional hinge that runs across the length of the ramp, which is used to assist in distributing the weight. This gives the ramp the ramp to have a higher capacity for carrying loads. Some models are able to be folded into multiple pieces and then carried as suitcases. Others are made from linked links that can be removed or re-arranged to form a ramp of any length. They can be folded into a circular shape to make it easy to store. These types of ramps are usually described as "roll-a-ramps". The various style ramps that are available for portable use offer high levels of safety accessibility, user-friendliness and mobility.
Easy to Setup
When looking for ramps, you'll want to choose one that is easy to install and use. Portable ramps may be used on occasion and might need to be stored in between uses. This is why it's important that they are easy to assemble or disassemble. Some models are designed to fold in half or quarters and are sized to fit into most vehicles making transportation seamless. Others have handles that permit them to be carried like a suitcase and are ideal for short inclines or loading an empty power chair on the van's side.
It is important to consider the amount of weight the ramp can support according to the kind you select. If you're using power chairs and require an extra capacity, you might think about ramps that have more durability and stability.
If you're not sure what kind of ramp will best suit your needs, it may be beneficial to talk to one of our Ramp Experts to assist you in determining which ramp is most suitable for you and answer any questions you have. They can also help you determine the amount of incline you'll need and provide suggestions on the best ramp length to meet your needs.
The material you choose for your ramp is also important. Wood joist ramps are composed of very rough pressed wood and are difficult to handle with hands alone and could cause fractures. You can attach handles made of plastic to the outside edges of each board to make it easier to hold.
Track channel ramps are a great option for those who travel frequently or require a threshold ramp to help them get over single-step entrances, or want an accessible ramp that can be put in place and then unfolded in a matter of minutes. This style features an aluminum frame with tracks on which wheels are mounted so that you can simply roll the ramp into place and it's ready to go. These ramps are also small enough to fit into the back of your vehicle or on a plane for travel.
Less Expensive Than In-Floor Ramps
Both fold-out and in-floor stairways offer numerous advantages to those who have a mobility limitations. However, there are a few fundamental differences that can help you choose the best ramp design.
For instance, some people prefer the flexibility of a ramp that folds out and stores in the doorway of their vehicle and then extends outward for use. The ramp can be easily accessed by the user and is able to be moved either manually or mechanically at the push of an button. It also has perforations on the ramp's flooring to make cleaning and maintenance simpler. Some models are also equipped with safety belts to help secure the wheelchair during use.
Another significant distinction between the two styles of ramps is that fold-out ramps are able to be used with both side-entry and rear-entry conversions. They can be installed on vehicles like the Honda Element or Chevrolet Traverse. In-floor ramps work best for rear-entry conversions. This allows the wheelchair to be placed behind the driver's seat, which is a good fit for families or those who travel with other wheelchair users.
In addition they are generally less expensive than in-floor ramps. This is due to the fact that they require fewer components to operate and can be stored in a much smaller space than an in-floor ramp. This will reduce the amount of time and money you need to invest in maintenance, which will save you money in the long term.
Be aware that the cost of ramps may not always be fixed. The cost of a ramp could be affected by many factors including the material used the location, the material, and labor. A ramp made of Trex, for example, will be more expensive than one made from aluminum. Medicaid programs in some states may cover the costs of ramps, but there are usually stipulations or eligibility requirements. For instance, Medicare requires a doctor to declare the ramp medically needed before it is covered. This is because the government recognizes that ramps can improve the quality of life for people who are disabled.
Simpler Maintenance
It is not enough to keep your ramps free of ice, debris and snow, but also make sure that it is safe for anyone who uses it. This includes installing rails to prevent wheelchairs from sliding off the edge, and making sure the slope of the ramp is in a safe level and that it isn't too steep or shallow. You can also salt the ramps in the same way you would walkways and roads to improve traction.
If you want to be able to take your ramp with you while traveling, choose one that can be folded or disassembled to make it easy to transport. The ramps are typically sized to fit inside the back of your car ramp for wheelchair and come with handles which make it easier to carry. They may be more expensive than in-floor ramps but they'll save you the cost of an ongoing ramp installation, which is a great option for those seeking temporary solutions to access wheelchairs.
Another kind of portable ramp is a threshold ramp that can be used to fill in small gaps such as doorways and single steps. These are usually used in homes and businesses to make it easier for wheelchairs and scooters to get through these obstacles, and then proceed through the doorway.
Threshold ramps are typically constructed of aluminum that is lightweight and are smaller in size than other types. They are easy to roll up and stored in a coat closet or even in the trunk of your car when not in use.
A Telescoping ramp is akin to a threshold ramp but can be used to assist with loading mobility scooters into the back of vans. This ramp features two narrow channels which expand and retract to match the wheels of the mobility scooter or wheelchair. It can be used alone or in conjunction with a Rubber Threshold Ramps For Wheelchairs at the entrance of your business or home.
If you are shopping for a ramp to improve accessibility at your home or business think about contacting local disability groups. They'll likely have networks of manufacturers and suppliers. They can offer recommendations or point you to reputable resources where you can purchase ramps at competitive cost. They might also know about financial assistance programs that can help you purchase accessible equipment such as a wheelchair mobility ramps ramp.