As parents grow old, children become more bound to take care of them. Sometimes children offer straightforward assistance like paying off the bills or helping them eat. But the remaining times, the need to help them can differ like transporting them to the doctor or letting them go outside for a change of air.
This assistance may be needed frequently as with age comes multiple health ailments. On the other hand, regularly asking for help from children can make the elderly feel less independent. In such times, you can focus on encouraging their independence by installing a ramp.
Yes, you heard it right. Just like the suitcase ramps that you see at the airports, you can get one for wheelchairs as well to encourage movement. However, what could be daunting is finding the right type of ramp. In this case, you can read the tips listed below to make the right choice.
- Know Your Mobility Device
If you choose a ramp without even knowing what you need it for, then you will end up choosing the wrong item. This is simply because it will not support the weight of the mobility device.
Once you know the purpose behind using the ramp, you will have to estimate its width, length and weight of it. For example, when needing a ramp for wheelchairs, make sure to consider its weight along with the person who would be using it and the width.
Doing this will help you to determine the minimal dimension alongside the weight capacity. Additionally, you will be able to make the right choice.
- Length of the Ramp
The next thing to consider when buying a ramp is determining its length. When you choose a short ramp, it becomes hazardous for the wheelchair user to safely ascend or descend.
Compared to the shorter ramps, the longer ones are considered to be a safer option and more convenient to use. This allows them to lessen the slope’s steepness.
However, when determining the length, remember to consider the attempted overcome of the entire vertical rise and the distance travelled straight out from the location without any obstacles.
- Material of the Ramp
When choosing the ramp, you must consider the material it is made up of. Choosing the right type of material will determine its durability of it. For instance, you can opt for buying aluminium ramps as they are less expensive compared to wooden ramps.
This is because of their modular construction which can be set up easily. Also, such ramps are easier to maintain and can be quickly adjusted when needed. The aluminium ramps are prone to dents and do not mix with the environment because of their metallic appearance.
- Portability
If you need ramps, especially for wheelchair use, then it is important to grab those which offer portability. The portable ramps are designed to be both durable and lightweight. They are simple to use and can be carried easily anywhere as they have handles.
Most of the ramps have folding or telescoping designs. They can also be disassembled which makes it simple for them to store anywhere including the car.
This means you will not have to worry about blocking your home for any reason. Besides using them for wheelchairs, the portable ramps can be used for power scooters through entryways and stairs as well.
Apart from that, if you do not want a portable ramp, then you can get one that comes with mounting hooks or holes for permanent installation.
- Budget
When you want to buy a ramp, your budget should not be excluded. Ramps are available at different rates which totally vary from one to another. The rates depend on the size, material, type of use, and other factors.
However, keeping your budget and need in mind, you should go ahead for buying one. There are indeed stores like ours at Welcome Mobility where you would get one at affordable rates without even needing to compromise the quality.
- Additional Features
Last but not the least, when buying a ramp for suitcases or wheelchairs, you should consider its additional features. As ramps have a variety of surface options like a grit coat, integrated traction lines, or robust punch plate traction – you must choose the one that suits your needs.
There are also ramps available which offer the option of handrails. Choosing such a type of ramp would offer convenience, and extra safety and reduce the anxiousness of falling off. Anyone who has had a bad experience of falling before can get ramps with such features.
Choose the Best Wheelchair Ramp Today
With a plethora of options everywhere around, you may find it daunting to choose the best wheelchair ramp. In that case, you can come to us at Welcome Mobility. We are the top-rated suppliers of suitcase ramps that are used by both the general public and businesses. Using premium quality material, our items are manufactured and supplied. We ensure that your expectations are met through our product. Additionally, the aluminium ramps that we offer are available at highly affordable rates.
