
If you use a wheelchair or electric scooter, chances are you’ve struggled when entering or exiting buildings. Banks, hotels, and restaurants are often wheelchair friendly, though the homes of your friends and family may not be–that’s where ramps for wheelchairs come in. Not only are they useful for getting into and out of buildings, but can increase mobility within the home, allowing you to seamlessly glide over uneven thresholds, low steps, or other changes in height. Take a look at my top picks below.
1. 8' Trifold Ramp by Ez-Access
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With a unique three-fold design, the Ez-Access ramp is portable yet extremely sturdy. It allows for easy access to steps, vehicles, and more, thanks to a self-adjusting transition plate, slip-resistant surface, and aircraft-grade materials. For greater convenience, the ramp can be carried as one unit or separated into two lightweight sections with handles. It sports a hefty 800 lb carrying capacity.
- Long length for access to a variety of heights
- Extremely durable
- Lifetime warranty
- May be too heavy for some
2. 4' Portable Singlefold Ramp by Prairie View Industries
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This portable ramp allows for smooth transitions over stairs, porches, and curbs. With a full 30″ wide platform it offers fantastic stability and support while remaining foldable for easy storage and transport. Made with high-grade materials and featuring a tough anti-slip surface, this product is extremely durable and safe. It can support up to 800 lbs.
- Sturdy and simple to position
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Easy to store and carry
- Not suitable for navigating high steps or long spans
3. 3' Modular Entry Ramp by Ez-Access
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One of the best portable aluminum wheelchair ramps, this free-standing product can be used to glide over thresholds, very low steps, and other raised areas in the home. The Ez-Access ramp is slip resistant, rust resistant, and made from high-quality materials, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor use. It stays lightweight and portable while boasting a 700 lb weight capacity.
- Solid construction
- Rust-resistant
- Lifetime warranty
- Ramp is a little noisy when rolling or walking over it
4. 4' Portable Mobility Ramp by Discount Ramps
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Made with a riveted aluminum surface that promises not to stain, this portable wheelchair ramp is ideal for traversing low steps, porches, and curbs. It folds in half and includes a built-in carry handle for easy transport and storage. Weight capacity is 600 lbs and has a maximum rise of twelve inches when unoccupied or eight inches when unoccupied.
- Side rails for added security
- No assembly necessary
- Compact and lightweight
- Too narrow for some wheelchairs and scooters
5. 8' Portable Folding Aluminum Ramp by Prairie View Industries
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Prairie View’s ramp is suitable for wheelchairs, scooters, and power chairs. With its long length and high traction surface, it allows users to navigate a variety of situations. It folds up easily and features an integrated handle so it is easy to store and move. Made in the USA, its weight capacity maxes out at 600 lbs.
- Made of high-quality aluminum
- Long enough to use over high steps or large height changes
- Non-slip surface
6. 6' Aluminum Multifold Ramp by Titan Ramps
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Here is a multi-fold ramp that’s ideal for use with scooters and wheelchairs. Titan Ramps’ product helps you easily access mini vans, pickup trucks, landings, and porches. It features a strong non-slip surface and an angled lip for greater security, while a soft nylon handle allows for easy portability. Weight capacity is 600 lbs.
- Well-priced
- Sturdy and secure
- Easy to fold
- Some people will require assistance when loading and unloading
7. 6' Portable Ramp with Extended Lip by Prairie View Industries
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Possibly one of the most versatile ramps for homes, this product has a special extendable lip to clear the bumper when loading vehicles. It also features an impressive maximum rise of eighteen inches when unoccupied, and up to a twelve-inch rise for occupied wheelchairs and scooters. At 800 lbs, the weight capacity is pretty remarkable as well. Prairie View’s six-foot ramp folds down for storage and can be separated into two sections for easy transport.
- Wide platform for maximum support and stability
- Extended lip for getting in and out of vehicles with ease
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Awkward and heavy to lift–assistance is definitely needed
8. 8' Suitcase Threshold Ramp by HomCom
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Made of aluminum alloy, this ramp is both sturdy and rust-resistant. With a skid-proof surface and guardrails on either side, it reduces the risk of falling and injury in all weather conditions. HomCom’s ramp folds up easily into a suitcase for easy storage and movement. It is suitable for use with wheelchairs and scooters and has a weight capacity 600 lbs.
- Tough, non-slip surface
- Folds into compact suitcase shape
- Rust-resistant
- Slightly narrow so may not accommodate all wheelchairs
9. Adjustable Telescoping Wheelchair Ramp by DMI Healthcare
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An alternative to the more traditional options, this telescoping wheelchair ramp comprises two separate u-shaped tracks. The retractable platforms allow for movement over a variety of surfaces including steps, curbs, and vehicles. They adjust from three to five feet with the touch of a button and feature a non-skid surface, making them convenient, safe, and stable. High-quality aluminum construction means they are rust resistant, durable, and lightweight. Weight capacity is 600 lbs.
- Tool-free assembly
- Includes nylon storage bag
- Simple push-button mechanism to lock or extend
- Not for use with power chairs, scooters, chairs with offset wheels, or those with less than 2.5” ground clearance
10. 6' Folding Wheelchair Ramp Plus by Silver Spring
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This is a convenient ramp designed for manual and power wheelchairs to traverse curbs, landings, and porches. The high-traction gritted surface, safety pins, and durable aluminum construction ensures safe and stable use, while the built-in carry handle makes for easy movement. It comes with a weight capacity of 600 lbs.
- Durable aluminum construction
- High-traction surface
- Easy to carry and store
- May not be suitable for walking on
Factors to Consider when Choosing Portable Ramps for Wheelchairs
With so many different types of portable wheelchair ramps for stairs, choosing the right one can be tricky. I suggest that you keep the following factors in mind before making your purchase, or take advantage of other common devices to aid individuals with limited mobility.
1. Type
There are several different styles of wheelchair ramp to choose from. Making the best choice will depend on your needs.
Doorway and Threshold Ramps
These types of ramps are available in slightly different lengths, although they tend to be short, covering just a few steps. They enable you to gently navigate slight bumps when moving from one room to another, or from outdoor to indoor.
Shower Ramps
Designed specifically to access the shower, these ramps are short, lightweight, and generally rust-resistant. They are a must-have for hospitals and residency homes.
Exterior-Access Ramps
These are probably the most popular types of wheelchair ramp. Designed to enable users to move safely in and out of their home, exterior-access ramps are typically made from rust-resistant and durable materials like aluminum. Depending on their length, they can also double-up as threshold ramps or ramps to access vehicles.
2. Size and Rise
When researching ramps, it’s important to consider the user’s ability to navigate steeper inclines. Many ramps require substantial upper body strength, or assistance from a friend or family member. In addition, power chairs and scooters risk tipping on steep inclines, or overtaxing the motor.
If choosing a ramp based on length, take into account the wheelchair type and available space in the home. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recommends ramps that allow one foot in length for every inch in height.
For maximum safety and ease of movement, your ramp’s width should allow a few inches on either side of the wheelchair, with the ADA suggesting a minimum ramp width of 36 inches.
3. Safety
Safety should be your primary concern when selecting a portable wheelchair ramp. Look for features such as:
- Adequate weight capacity
- Non-slip grip
- Ridges or rails to prevent tipping
- An extended lip
- Safety pins to help keep the ramp in place
- Durable material
4. Portability
If you will frequently set up the ramp on your own, consider how easy it is to lift and move. Due to the heavy weight they support, maneuvering some ramps may require strength and dexterity.
5. Compatibility
Whether you are looking for portable handicap ramps for homes, work, or anywhere else, the right ramp will be made to fit your needs. Regardless of the type you are looking for, always check if it is compatible with your wheelchair size and type!
Ramps for Wheelchairs Make Life Easier
Owning a portable ramp will open a new world of possibilities for those who use a wheelchair or electric scooter. In fact, I’ve seen patients get a whole new lease on life thanks to these helpful products. Not only do they allow for increased comfort, but inspire greater independence and peace of mind. When you find the best wheelchair ramp for you, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Sources:
https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/2010ADAStandards/2010ADAstandards.html
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