If you, or a member of your family, or friends, rely on a wheelchair, or partially rely on a wheelchair, thanks to devices such as a portable ramp for wheelchairs, and other similar wheelchair ramps, getting around in a wheelchair is now easier than ever. As you can probably imagine, being confined to a wheelchair can hinder your mobility and the accessibility of various locations, but as mentioned, with wheelchair access ramps, getting around in a wheelchair is now considered easier than ever before.
What you may not be aware of however, is the fact that there are actually a number of different styles and designs of wheelchair ramps, which can vary hugely, not only in price, but also in features and uses as well. If you’re looking at purchasing wheelchair ramps, it’s important that you are able to tell the difference between each one, and so for that reason, here’s a look at some of the most common and most practical wheelchair ramp designs.
Portable Wheelchair Ramps
First up, we’ll look at a portable ramp for wheelchairs. As the name implies, portable wheelchair ramps, are, well portable, in that they can be moved from one location to another, making them absolutely perfect for days out. These ramps can be found in rigid form, or more commonly, they are actually foldable, meaning that a portable ramp for wheelchairs can be taken pretty much anywhere. For getting over large steps or pavements and curbs, as well as into vehicles, these portable ramps are ideal, and they open up a whole new world of accessibility. They don’t have handrails, but even so, they are very sturdy and secure. Just be wary however, that a foldable portable ramp for wheelchairs, will flex and buckle, so it is not suitable for permanent use.
Modular Wheelchair Ramps
Modular ramps are a fantastic long-term solution for anybody needing regular access to a certain property or location. As the name implies, they are made up of sturdy modules, usually made from aluminium, which can be configured in a number of different ways, so you can go with a gradual gradient, a steeper incline, or one single level. They also feature grips for the wheelchair user, as well as the care provider. They aren’t perhaps the most attractive things to look at, but in terms of safety and practicality, they win hands down.
Threshold Ramps
Finally, we have threshold ramps, which come in a number of different designs. These ramps are much smaller than the other aforementioned examples on our list, and they are perfect for doorsteps and garden steps that aren’t all that steep. Usually they are made from wood, rubber, or metal, and come in a number of designs. One such design is one known as the ‘Lego-style’ threshold ramp, which have a pattern similar to that of a Lego brick, which increases grip and also allows for the drainage of water, which, in the UK, is very beneficial.