Threshold ramps for walkers

When someone is confined to a wheelchair, one of their biggest challenges is maneuvering the wheelchair over all the metal plates protecting the bases of doors. There are some of them that can be as high as three inches, making it almost impossible to clear them without help. This challenge can be made easier by Threshold ramps, which are available in different materials and sizes to meet any need.

Portable and Easy To Use

Foldable threshold ramps can be taken inside or outside the home, or left in place when not in use. They do not have to be affixed in any fashion and should be placed when needed at an angle that does not make using them dangerous. Some of them have a fixed length, while others can be extended to at least three feet on either side of the doorway. Others, however, should be used outdoors where they will be exposed to the elements, or anywhere extra traction is needed, such as in the bathroom or shower.

Plastic Ramps

A plastic ramp can be placed over any threshold up to six inches in height, can be folded up and transported easily, and can be placed over any doorway threshold. They are durable, with traction ridges to handle most wheelchairs, but may not be advisable for use with power chairs. The weight of power chairs and scooters can be in the range of more than a hundred pounds and with the added weight of the rider, maybe more than a plastic ramp can handle. It is always a good idea to check the weight allowance on a ramp before purchasing it.

Aluminum Ramps

Aluminum is the most commonly used material for portable ramps, which makes them lightweight and easy to transport. The extendable versions of these ramps make them very versatile for maneuvering about the home or office and can be extended several feet on either side of the doorway. They are also good for overcoming curbs and steps with ease, as long as the angle they are placed at is within a safe climb for the wheelchair. Aluminum ramps can handle more weight than most, so they're ideal for scooters, power chairs, and even wheelchairs with heavy wheels.

Rubber

Finally, Rubber threshold ramps are designed to provide smooth transitions quickly over raised surfaces like sliding door frames and elevator doors in areas where extra traction may be needed due to environmental conditions. Built with molded treads, they are virtually non-slip in nature, making them perfect for use in the bathroom, kitchen, shower area, pool area, or outdoor deck. A rubber ramp is even more portable since it can easily be rolled up and stored in a pouch on the wheelchair, or even packed in a backpack or briefcase for use outside the home.