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Portable Scooter and Wheelchair Ramps - Getting to know what
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Author: Nicole Martins
Topic: Health
Viewed: 56 time(s)
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If you are considering the need for a mobility ramp to keep you
moving or to transport your scooter or wheelchair down from a
truck or mini van, it is advisable to find as much information
as you can on the types of ramps available. The wide variety of
ramps on the market are ideal for negotiating steps and curbs,
getting you smoothly over any transition in height that a
doorway may present, and also to load and unload your chair from
a vehicle. Determining what height or obstacle you are trying to
negotiate will help you to decide which style of ramp works best
for you. How steep is the incline? How high? How wide and heavy
is your chair or scooter? Do you need to carry the ramp with you
to use at your destination? What is your budget? Answering these
questions will assist in narrowing down the choices and finding
a ramp that works best for your needs. Here is a description of
some of the more popular scooter portable ramp types: Threshold
Ramps ? These are designed for doorways, sliding glass doors,
and raised landings. They allow for easier wheelchair movement
within or outside of your home. These ramps can be installed
permanently or moved around as necessary. These are generally
smaller in size and fairly inexpensive, ranging from $40 - $150.
Roll Up Ramps ? This style of ramp is a good choice for someone
who needs an easily transportable ramp. Designed with hinges and
usually made with aluminum, it easy to roll up and light enough
to carry anywhere. Some ramps are of a fixed size and some allow
for extension of up to 8 feet or more, meaning the user can
access different models of mini and full-sized vans with just
one ramp. Prices start around $200. Suitcase Ramps - A
convenient and compact ramp that folds in half lengthwise and
features a built-in carrying handle to allow it to be carried
like a suitcase when not in use. Again, made of aluminum to keep
it lightweight. Smaller models may come with a storage bag. This
ramp works for most scooters and wheelchair types and is
designed to bridge the gap over steps and curbs. Larger models
work for van loading. To use it you simply unfold the hinged
ramp, position it and go. Prices start around $135 for a 2 foot
ramp. Multi-Fold Ramps ? These are very similar in design to the
suitcase ramp and may also offer a handle for carrying like a
suitcase. The reason you may want to choose a ramp that does
more than just fold in half is if you need a larger ramp and
storage is an issue. Here you are going to get a ramp that
allows to you to maneuver much taller obstacles but yet still be
able to fold up the ramp into a size comparable to a much
smaller ramp. Prices start around $225. Telescopic Ramps ? These
extend to allow you to use them at a variety of height levels so
you can use just one ramp to navigate steps, vans, or curbs. For
storage, simply pick up each ramp rail and depress the guide
buttons to collapse; this ramp offers the lightest weight and
most compact storage. Prices start at around $150 Track
Wheelchair Ramps ? Basically this is two separate ramps that are
lined up to the width of the chair or scooter?s (doesn?t work
for 3 wheeled scooters) wheels. Some versions offer telescoping
for easier storage. Generally they are made of aluminum to keep
them lightweight. This is a good option if you are transporting
more than one chair and not all of them have the same wheel
width. Prices start around $250. If you are looking to buy a
portable or van ramp for your scooter, we suggest taking a look
online for the best prices and value. There are many quality
online stores that focus on top notch mobility aids, keeping up
with the latest brands and manufactured technology. (see:
http://www.wheelchair-ramps-and-mobility-aids.com/wheelchair-ramp
s.htm)
About the author:
Nicole Martins is a contributing author and publisher to
http://www.wheelchair-ramps-and-mobility-aids.com, a
comprehensive guide to the mobility products available online,
helping you to overcome disabilities and live a more active
life.
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