What to look for in a Wheelchair Ramp
Wheelchair access ramps and scooter ramps can be essential tools in leading a normal life for people with mobility challenges. Modern wheelchairs and scooters are increasingly more manoeuvrable, and yet the same old obstacles in buildings e.g. steps, can still provide the same formidable and unwelcome challenge. Thankfully we can now buy and take our own ramps with us to minimise the impact of these potential obstacles. What things should you look for when choosing an access ramp for a wheelchair or scooter?
How portable is it?
Weight and size are obvious issues. It may be something that can be transported and kept in a vehicle, in which case it could be a little larger. The length of the ramp when fully extended and when in storage mode, the inside width, and the transport dimensions should all be considered and researched. The right ones will depend on your personal circumstances to an extent, but you may find that many ramps have similar dimensions – often there are plain/normal ramps or wide ramps.
Some wheelchair ramps are telescopic. This is obviously helpful and convenient. Suitcase ramps fold up to the size of a suitcase and their lightweight material construction means that they can literally be carried using one finger (not that you are likely to transport them this way). They can also be stored by hanging them on the back of a chair.
How strong is it?
This question encompasses two points. Firstly, is it made from strong, durable materials? Many ramps are made from very lightweight metals or carbon fibre – both are good.
Secondly, how much weight can it support? You should be bale to get accurate information from your supplier about the maximum load (kg) so you’ll have a good idea if it’s right for you.
Finally
The obvious final question is “how much will I have to pay?”. Prices obviously vary but you may need to budget for something from between £100 and £200 for a simple threshold ramp, and £200 upwards for many other ramps, up to a possible £1000 for the high end ramps. The price you pay will ultimately depend on the brand, supplier and your personal needs.
wheelchair ramps, wheelchair access ramps. Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/disabilities-articles/what-to-look-for-in-a-wheelchair-ramp-993160.html
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