The Right Ramp Can Make Your Life Easier
By Senti, Richard; Quest, Volume 19, Number 2Publication Date: April 2012
Article presents a wide variety of ramp options to help wheelchair users get around barriers in and around their home. Options discussed include (1) threshold ramps for small barriers such as doorways, made of heavy duty rubber or aluminum, some of which feature incremental ramp height adjustments or adjustable feet; (2) portable ramps, ranging in width from 30 to 36 inches and in length from 2 to 10 feet, the most basic of which is a one-piece solid aluminum model with safety side rails, although there are also multifold ramps hinged both lengthwise and widthwise to reduce their size for transporting, and portable models made of lighter-weight fiberglass; (3) for higher barriers such as steps up to a porch, a modular ramp, essentially a giant kit with basic components such as ramp sections, turning platforms, and handrails that can be configured to suit many porch configurations. The article advises consumers to buy from a disability ramp manufacturer or to work with a disability ramp contractor to ensure that the ramp meets requirements set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and is safe for wheelchair users. Also discussed are ramp prices, maintenance, and materials, with concrete recommended as the strongest material requiring the least amount of maintenance.
Published by: Muscular Dystrophy Association (Website:http://www.mdausa.org)
Link to text: http://quest.mda.org/article/right-ramp-can-make-your-life-easier
