If your home lacks handicap accessibility features, taking on the responsibility of becoming a caregiver for a disabled relative may require upgrades to your residence. The installation of a permanent ramping system could cost thousands of dollars and may alter the appearance of your home. Investing in a portable ramping system is a cheaper, temporary solution.
The Incline And The Support Load
Portable ramping systems often contain a hook feature that will allow the end of a ramp to be latched to the bumper of a vehicle or another raised surface that will be traversed. There are some models that can be anchored along their sides and that will provide an end-user with a level surface that comprises the sections where the ramp and a permanent surface meet.
Important variables to consider when shopping for medical equipment are the incline that your relative will be presented with and the support load that a ramping system can handle. The incline of a ramp should not be steep, especially since this could result in a wheelchair tipping over or difficulty with using a walker or another mobility aid to safely traverse a ramp. That said, the support load is the amount of weight that a ramp can bear.
Ramp Designs
Some ramps are designed to provide access across a threshold, a stoop, or another surface that is relatively low in height. A ramping system that is long in length may feature a gradual incline. This type of system can be used to cross a section of land that is bumpy or to ascend a set of steps that comprise a back or front yard.
If your family member's care will take place predominantly at your residence, measure the areas within your home or on your property that your relative may have difficulty crossing. When comparing mobility aids that are sold through a medical supplier, choose a model that is sturdy and long enough to use inside of your home and on your property.
If your family member will be attending medical appointments or if you will be taking them on various outings, shop for a portable model that comes enclosed in a case. This type of ramping system is convenient to store and carry. Wood, concrete, and metal ramps can be used indoors and outdoors. Purchase a ramping system that you are comfortable setting up and that will be relatively easy to clean and store.
To learn more about portable wheelchair ramps, contact a provider.
