Blog entry by Tanja Sankt
Choosing Portable Ramps For Wheelchair Accessibility
Portable ramps can be an excellent way to assist wheelchair users navigate through inclines, such as steps or curbs. They are light and can be rolled up or folded for stowing away.
Find a wide range of ramps available from local accessibility equipment dealers or medical supply stores. Online retailers also offer detailed descriptions reviews, comparison tools for various ramps.
Portable Ramps that Fold Fold
Portable ramps that fold up are a great solution to make wheelchair accessibility easier. They can be used in various locations to help wheelchair users navigate obstacles like curbs, steps, or elevated surfaces. They also require less complicated and expensive maintenance than in-floor ramps which makes them an attractive option for many people.
When you are choosing a folding portable ramp, there are several things to consider, such as the weight and size of your wheelchair, scooter or other mobility device as well as the location 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 obstacle that it is used to traverse. If you're uncertain about the appropriate height for you, consult with healthcare professionals or accessibility specialists for guidance.
Ramps come in different designs, styles and capacities that can be adapted to fit your specific wheelchair and mobility requirements. From simple threshold ramps that are designed for doorways with small openings to long single or multi-fold ramps that can be loaded into the back of the vehicle There are ramps to fit almost any needs and budget.
In addition to being light and compact portable ramps for wheelchairs are typically made of sturdy materials to ensure their strength and durability. They also have an anti-slip surface to minimize the chance of slips and falls in any weather.
The most commonly used kind of portable ramp is a single-fold ramp that folds up and secured into place using the center hinge. Certain models have another hinge along the width of the ramp, which is used to support and distribute the weight. This allows for the ramp to have a higher capacity for carrying loads. Some models can be folded into multiple pieces, and carried as suitcases. Some are constructed of a series of connected links that can be joined or removed to create an individual length ramp and they roll into a cylinder for simple storage. These ramps are often referred as "roll-a'ramps". The various styles of portable ramps are all designed to offer high levels in safety, portability and accessibility.
Easy to Set-up
When shopping for a ramp you'll want to select one that is easy to install and use. portable wheelchair ramps for vehicles ramps are often used occasionally and might need to be stored in between use. This makes it important that they are easy to disassemble and assemble. Some models can fold in half or quarters and are designed so that they can be inserted into the majority of vehicles. This makes transportation simple. Some models have handles which make them easy to carry like a suitcase. They are perfect for loading a power chair into a van or climbing short slopes.
Based on the type of ramp you pick It's important to consider how much weight the ramp is able to support. If you're using a powered wheelchair and require a larger maximum capacity, you may require ramps that provide more strength and stability than those designed for manual scooters or wheelchairs.
If you're not sure which type of ramp would best meet your needs, you may need to speak with our Ramp Experts. They will help you determine which one is most suitable for you and answer any questions that you may have. They can also help you determine how much incline you'll need and provide recommendations on the appropriate ramp length to meet your needs.
Another factor to think about is the material your ramp is made of. Wood joists are rough-pressed wood, which is difficult to hold in your hands. They could even cause the occurrence of splinters. To make them easier to handle you can place two handles made of plastic on the outside of each ramp board.
Another option that's ideal for individuals who often travel, are looking for an threshhold ramp that can help get over single step entrances, or need an instant setup and unfolding ramp is the track channel ramp. This style features an aluminum frame that has tracks on which wheels are positioned so you can simply roll the ramp onto the track and be ready for use. These ramps are also small enough to be easily rolled into the back of your vehicle or on the plane to travel on.
Costs Less Than In-Floor Ramps
Both ramps that fold out and in-floor ramps offer a number of benefits that can benefit those with mobility issues. However there are some key differences that can help you choose which ramp style to choose.
For instance, some prefer the flexibility of a fold-out ramp that stores in the vehicle's doorway and extends outward to be used. The ramp is accessible to the user and can be set up either manually or mechanically at the touch of an button. It also features perforations in the ramp's floor to make cleaning and maintenance easier. Some models are also equipped with safety belts that aid in securing the 6ft wheelchair ramp during use.
Another major distinction between the two types of ramp is that fold-out ramps are able to be used with both rear-entry as well as side-entry conversions. This means they can be fitted to vehicles such as the Honda Element and Chevrolet Traverse. In-floor ramps are best for rear-entry conversions. This allows the wheelchair behind the driver's chair, which is a great choice for families or people who travel with other non-wheelchair users.
Fold-out ramps for electric wheelchairs are also less expensive than those in-floor. This is due to the fact that they require fewer parts to operate and can be stored in a much smaller space than an in-floor ramp. This can reduce the time and money you spend on maintenance.
Remember that the price for ramps may not always be fixed. Many factors can impact the cost of a ramp, including materials location, construction and labor. For example ramps made from Trex will likely to be more expensive than one constructed from aluminum. Medicaid programs in some states may cover the cost of ramps, however there are often restrictions or eligibility requirements. Medicare, for example requires that a physician declare the ramp to be medically necessary to be covered. The government recognizes that ramps can improve the quality of life for those with disabilities.
Simpler Maintenance
You should not only keep your ramps free of ice, debris and snow, but also make sure that it is safe for everyone who uses it. It is essential to install rails that prevent wheelchairs from slipping off the edge. Also the slope of the ramp must be at a level that is safe and not too low or steep. You can also apply salt to the ramps as you would walkways and roads to improve the traction.
If you're looking to transport your ramp easily you should choose one that can be folded up or disassembled. They are usually designed to fit into the back of your vehicle and come with handles which make it easier to carry. These ramps can be more expensive than floor-to-ceiling ones, but they can save you money on the installation of a permanent one. This is an ideal solution for those who are seeking temporary wheelchair accessibility solutions.
Another type of portable ramp is a threshold ramp, that can be used to bridge small gaps in height like doors and single steps. They are commonly utilized in businesses and homes to allow wheelchairs or scooters to move over these obstacles and then continue on through the doorway.
Threshold ramps are typically made of aluminum that is lightweight and smaller than other wheelchair ramps. They can be easily rolled up and stored in a closet or even in the trunk of your car when it is not being used.
A Telescoping ramp is similar to a threshold ramp, but can be used to assist with loading mobility scooters into the back of a van. This ramp has two narrow channels that can extend and retract to match the wheels of the wheelchair or mobility scooter, and it can be used as a stand-alone device or in conjunction with an threshold ramp at the entrance to a home or business.
Think about contacting local disability organizations when you are looking for ramps that will increase accessibility at home or in the office. They will likely have networks of suppliers and manufacturers and can provide recommendations or direct you to reputable resources where you can purchase ramps at affordable cost. They may also be aware of financial assistance programs for buying accessible equipment like a wheelchair ramp.