As a family caregiver, your main job is to ensure your loved one is safe and taken care of in their home. Depending on the extent of the mobility limitations they have, installing a wheelchair ramp may be an ideal solution. However, trying to build a ramp yourself or hiring someone for the cheapest cost may not be a solution to pursue. The size of the ramp, the steepness, the materials, and other factors play a major role in how safe and secure the ramp is for seniors living at home. In most cases, having a qualified professional install your wheelchair ramp is the way to go.
Steepness Is A Critical Attribute
According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a wheelchair ramp should be one foot long for every inch high, with the starting point of the measurements being the ramp’s landing point. Many people make the mistake of building the ramp too steep, which can be just as dangerous as walking down steps. If there is any precipitation or moisture on the ramp, it can create a slip hazard and an unsafe access point. Plus, if your loved one uses a wheelchair, mobility scooter or other mobility devices, it may be difficult or even impossible for them to go up the ramp on their own.
Consider Mobility Needs When Determining Wheelchair Ramp Width
The width of the wheelchair ramp can be a little more flexible based on your needs. It needs to be at least wide enough for a wheelchair or scooter plus a little extra room on each side. You may also consider making it wide enough for two people to walk on the ramp side-by-side comfortably in situations where you’ll have to assist your loved one walking up or down it. Ramps can be customized to your needs based on the location they will be installed, so consider all of your needs before investing in one.
Allow Accessibility Professionals To Complete The Job
Having an accessibility professional install your wheelchair ramp will ensure safety and security. They can also evaluate different aspects of your home and determine whether a portable wheelchair ramp would be more beneficial in certain locations rather than a permanent one. They will work with ADA standards in mind and go above and beyond the basic requirements to ensure safety. And as a caregiver, you can have peace of mind and assistance knowing the ramp will help you do your job more easily.
Next Day Access takes great pride in offering and installing high-quality products to ensure safety and security for people with mobility limitations. A wheelchair ramp can make a huge difference in the day-to-day life of seniors living at home when they don’t have to worry about going up and down the stairs. If you’re ready to pursue accessibility options for your loved one’s home, contact us today to schedule a free home assessment.
