Understanding the many options in Mobility Ramps

It is very possible that a mobility ramp could make your home more accessible and your life easier, but which kind of ramp is right for you? You have many options in mobility ramps and understanding the differences can help you hone-in on the precise ramp for your living situation, your lifestyle, and your limitations.

Would a ramp make your home or property more accessible? You have a lot of options when it comes to ramps; which one is right for you? Luckily, you don’t have to make this decision alone; talk to the industry experts at Pacific Mobility to learn more and pinpoint exactly the types of ramps that make the most sense for you, your lifestyle, and your living situation.

Mobility Ramps

Naturally,  are a lot of benefits of a ramp for those with physical limitations, from getting in and out of their home to getting behind the wheel of a car. Ramps can provide access for individuals that utilize mobility devices, like scooters or wheelchairs, or they can provide safe access for individuals that may be at risk of a fall.

Here are some of your ramp options, as well as the highlights of each one:

Portable Ramps

Perhaps the most common and popular ramp style available is the portable ramp. Found widely in many different designs and types, portable ramps offer a lightweight and affordable option that can be altered to suit your needs. These are integral to the independence of anyone in a wheelchair or that uses a scooter, as many can travel with the user wherever they happen to go. From tri-fold styles to suitcase-type ramps, portable ramps can be life-changing providing immediate access, inside and out.

Platform Ramps

When it comes to installing platform ramps, it requires a bit more of a commitment than a portable ramp. First, these need to be professionally installed to ensure they are safe- as well as to ensure that they provide stable support for years to come. Platform ramps may or may not come with lifts; talk to a mobility expert to learn more.

Modular Ramps

Another versatile solution is modular track ramps and systems. These can be used inside and out, configured to fit the site and the specific environment. For example, these are frequently found in lightweight aluminum tracks that are put together to create the ramp that you- or your loved one- needs.  Don’t worry- these meet ADA wheelchair ramp specifications and guidelines when installed by an industry professional. These often come with preassembled railings and platforms, which distinguish your ramp from any other.

For the most part, these modular ramps skid-resistant surfacing as well as provide weight limits of up to 850 pounds. These can be installed quickly by a pro and are found widely among mobility aid vendors.

Car and Van Ramps

Car and ram vamps can help those with physical limitations get in, out, and navigate using a vehicle. There are various styles, many adapted to specific types of cars, vans, and trucks, while others are designed to the specific needs of the user. A wheelchair ramp can help those with physical disabilities get behind the wheel and drive their vehicle, without assistance. This can go a long way toward preserving autonomy and overall quality of life.

Threshold Ramps

Only need a little help? The threshold of a doorway or a rise can be just as challenging for someone with physical limitations than an entire set of stairs… Threshold ramps can bridge these smaller accessibility gaps, smoothing out the rise and creating a smoother terrain to traverse. These are typically used with scooters, wheelchairs, or simply when the user has difficulty raising or lowering their feet and legs. These usually can be used to bridge one-to-six-inch heights, with a general weight limit of up to 600 pounds.  

For something that can help prevent slips and falls, consider a rubber threshold ramp, which is also great for outdoor accessibility solutions. These are ADA compliant and can be used in spots where precipitation, like snow or ice, can make the surface treacherous. Also, these rubber ramps are easy to move offering flexibility and more options.

Having a wheelchair ramp built at your residence? Make sure that you hire an expert- someone who is qualified- to make these important modifications to your home. Poor design or builder error can cost you more than a few bucks- it could be the cause or a serious, even fatal accident. Be safe and only hire a professional to build or install ramps, to be sure they meet the ADA guidelines.

Ready to invest in a ramp? From portable to permanent, Pacific Mobility has been providing mobility solutions to Southern California residents for generations. Call today for your free needs assessment or to talk to an in-house professional.