subject: Folding Wheelchair Ramps For Greater Mobility [print this page] There are a number of different types of wheelchair ramps available. Folding wheelchair ramps in particular provide a greater degree of accessibility for those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters. Let's take a look at a few and what they are primarily used for.
The first type is threshold ramps. As the name indicates these ramps have been designed so any type of threshold or raised landing can be easily accessed. A threshold ramp is made out of high quality aluminum. Because of that they are lightweight and extremely easy to handle.
To use, place the ramp against the doorway or raised area to make the transition from one area to another, smooth. These ramps are meant to be used for wheelchairs and scooters.
Fold them up and take them along so you can set them up in a doorway as needed. With a threshold ramp, there is no need to lift awkward, heavy mobility chairs over thresholds.
Track ramps are designed to be used with both manual and power wheelchairs. Most of these ramps have telescopic channels that can be extended for use where there are moderate changes in elevation, like over curbs or steps.
A track ramp is easy to store since it collapses when the telescopic channels are retracted. They are lightweight so it's an easy matter to bring them along so that you have them when the need arises.
There are many other types of ramps available including single fold and multi fold. This type of ramp is for loading or unloading scooters or wheelchairs in or out of vehicles. You can also use them in place of some of the other ramps already mentioned, but they are generally larger.
Single fold ramps are among the most common all-purpose ramp. With a single fold ramp, all you need to do is unfold it, place it over the obstruction and roll the wheelchair or scooter up or down.
These ramps come with built-in handles making them easy to carry around and a cinch to store. Single fold ramps come in a variety of materials, and sizes and can be used virtually anywhere a ramp is needed.
Multi fold ramps are versatile all-purpose ramps. Because of their design these ramps can handle longer elevation changes, yet are strong enough to accommodate all types of scooters and wheelchairs.
Although heavy, a multi fold ramp is not hard to move around especially those that have built in handles. Some of these ramps can be disassembled for storage and transport, so the weight is evenly distributed between the pieces.
With the variety of folding wheelchair ramps available, you are sure to find one to suit your needs.
