Ramp Solutions - Articles

Portable Wheelchair Ramps Offer Significant Safety and Ease-of-Use Advantages

The evolution of powered wheelchairs has enhanced the freedom of movement available to people in a host of environments—at home, at work, in the community and elsewhere. However, even the newest breed of wheelchairs is not equipped to be used outdoors or for extended periods of time. If a wheelchair-bound individual wants to make a sizable or lengthy trip anywhere, he or she needs to procure a motor vehicle to transport themselves and a wheelchair. In those situations and others, a dependable, versatile portable wheelchair ramp is essential.

Portable wheelchair ramps are effective temporary measures in the absence of permanent ramps constructed of wood, concrete or metal. They are helpful tools in avoiding the awkwardness and danger involved in manually transferring both the individual and the wheelchair into and out of a motor vehicle. Singlewide and channel ramps are the most common types of portable ramps, but there are a host of styles that vary in design, size, portability and ease of use. Weight, length and width are key design features that have a significant impact on both safety and usability. With so many different options and models, the needs of both the users and caregivers should be able to be accommodated.

Despite all the advantages inherent in portable ramps, they can pose some hazards. There are a few safety concerns to consider with portable wheelchair ramps, including the following:

• Some are heavy and difficult to handle, making them unwieldy
• Inclement weather or other environmental conditions can also have an adverse effect on ease of use
• Channel ramps can only be used by caregivers who are physically able to walk between the channels while pushing the wheelchair at shoulder height
• Portable ramps are designed to load unoccupied wheelchairs only
• Some can’t be placed in a vehicle’s load space due to excess weight, length or width

When choosing the ideal portable ramp for your needs, compatibility between the ramp, the vehicle and the wheelchair is absolutely crucial if they are to be used safely and effectively. The location and dependability of handles and locking mechanisms, plus the various folding options, are important factors. Most caregivers prefer channel ramps because they can be handled more easily, and they also like the versatility offered by folding and telescopic ramps over those with fixed dimensions. Singlewide platforms are usually the choice of users because they require less effort and concentration and can promote confidence and speed.

Portable wheelchair ramps can be useful resources; the key is choosing the right model with the right specifications for you and your needs. Ramp Solutions prides itself on working with you to make these all-important decisions and pinpoint the perfect solution for you. We want to make sure you find the best ramp at an affordable price. Look around our site and make your purchase right online, or contact us at 1-800-630-4713 for further information.