Wheelchair ramps are often dismissed as only being useful for wheelchair users and those using mobility devices. But the benefits of having wheelchair ramps at home extend far beyond that.
Having them makes moving around the house easier without worrying that someone might slip on uneven flooring or fall down the stairs. The obvious benefits of wheelchair ramps are that wheelchair users are able to safely and conveniently go up and down stairs and thresholds, and be able to easily access the house and its yard (and vice versa)-but wheelchair ramps will benefit every one of any age or ability.
Some examples of how access ramps can make everyday life easier:
- Makes it easier and safer for parents to bring their baby in a stroller
- Mobility aid users, such as those who use walkers, wheelchairs, and scooters, can enjoy more freedom and independence in going in and out of the house
- You don’t need to strain yourself when moving heavy items, packages, or luggages in and out of the house
What is a wheelchair ramp?
A wheelchair ramp is an inclined plane that can be used in place or in addition to steps.
This accessibility device can be permanent or temporary. Permanent ramps are made to be bolted or otherwise secured in place, and are typically made of aluminum, concrete, or wood. Temporary or semi-permanent ramps are not bolted in place but rest on top of a concrete pad or the ground so you can move them around or store them when you no longer need them.
For temporary ramps, it’s best to check how easy they are to fold and store and how much space they take up when folded. A portable ramp such as the Roll-A-Ramp is a good option for a temporary ramp, as it can be folded compactly for easy storage and transportation. It is made of aluminum and very durable.
Portable ramps are mainly constructed for indoor and outdoor use, or even to help the user go up and down a vehicle safely and conveniently.
Other types of ramps include modular, pathway, custom, single fold, rubber threshold, portable suitcase, and telescoping track.
Remember to get only access ramps made by credible manufacturers, those which are properly designed, and ADA-compliant. The minimum width and maximum slope of a ramp, particularly a permanent ramp, are frequently regulated by law in many places.
Benefits of having a wheelchair ramp in your home
Do you need a wheelchair ramp in your home? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over half of all people with disabilities are estimated to experience “severe limitations” regarding mobility.
But whether or not you’re living with a disability or limited mobility, you can enjoy the following benefits of having a wheelchair ramp in your home:
1. Greater independence and mobility
Ramps were essentially created to improve the movement of people with physical limitations. They make it easier for those who use wheelchairs and other mobility aids, as well as elderly persons, to navigate stairs, steps, and uneven flooring- helping people avoid accidents in these risky areas.
Ramps provide people with more independence. Rather than relying entirely on caretakers and family members for mobility, people with disabilities and mobility limitations can manage their movement better with wheelchair ramps.
This makes a huge difference in the lives of individuals with physical ailments- apart from physical safety, this increased level of independence is crucial to mental and emotional well-being, as they give people a sense of freedom and accomplishment.
2. Access to different parts of the home
Some houses are built with obstructions in the entryway, such as high thresholds or one to three steps. People who use mobility aids like wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers may struggle even with just a single step. Furthermore, having to lift their feet can cause anyone to become off-balance, causing slips and falls.
Though there may be family members and caregivers who can help them, this entails dependence on others, which is an awkward spot to be put in for a lot of people. Installing a wheelchair ramp allows users to remain independent and retain their sense of freedom.
Whether the barrier is a single high threshold or a few steps, there are wheelchair ramps that are specifically designed for each home design and specific need. The installation of ramps will help individuals with mobility and balance issues reach spaces they might not have otherwise been able to access, due to these barriers.
3. Allows individuals to enjoy the outdoors
It takes just a simple ramp to provide yourself and your family members easy and safe access to the outdoors, where you want to take advantage of the sunshine, fresh air, and other outdoor activities.