Image source: equipsy.com.au
As people age, mobility challenges rise which results in the need for home accessibility features. Stairs and uneven entryways, for example, now pose obstacles. It’s a good thing that wheelchair ramps are purposely made to help people navigate their homes better. To know more about the benefits these accessories offer, check out the article below!
Why Accessibility Matters in Senior Living
Several mobility challenges, such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and muscle weakness, result in seniors needing wheelchairs and walkers. These tools allow them to move safely, but they pose additional challenges when not paired with the right accessories.
When using wheelchairs, seniors have limited energy to move from one floor to another or an elevated area without a ramp. That’s why it’s important to create a home that makes it accessible for them. In that regard, creating an environment that is safe to live independently significantly contributes to their well-being.
The Safety Benefits of Wheelchair Ramps
Ramps help minimise fall risks. According to Healthdirect, one out of four seniors fall at least once a year in Australia alone. This incident happens due to the physical changes in their bodies that make basic home features a safety hazard. With these falls. It results in serious injuries that need extended hospital care and professional monitoring.
That said, using wheelchairs and ramps can reduce the number of senior falls each year. And by making the home more accessible, it also ensures their safety and gives them peace of mind. Not just that, these ramps provide safe entry and exit in all weather conditions.
In fact, they offer extra stability during rain, snow, or icy conditions. They are typically made of sturdy materials, making them safe options for seniors.
Enhance Mobility and Independence with Ramps
Ramps and other mobility features, like grab rails, offer improved access to different home areas. These tools are commonly placed in front doors, backyards, garages, and other areas for secure senior access.
Since seniors move independently despite their mobility issues, ramps, and rails lets them continue navigating their homes without constant assistance. This also makes it easier for them as they can participate in outdoor activities.
Types of Wheelchair Ramps for Senior Homes
Homeowners needn’t worry about finding ramps that fit their homes since these come in different types such as rubber and aluminium.
Rubber Ramps
As their name suggests, these durable, non-slip ramps are made of high-grade rubber. They can support the weight of seniors and other wheelchair users. In fact, it allows them to move from point A to point B safely as it has portable options.
Moreover, rubber ramps are weather-proof and eco-friendly. Their material also makes them easy to install in designated places. And, they come in different sizes and gradients to fit your needs and are custom-made for specific measurements.
Aluminium Threshold Ramps
Aluminium ramps are highly customisable and can be used for more than just wheelchairs. Walkers and scooter users can maximise their benefits. Since they’re customisable, owners can cut them to their desired length using a hacksaw. Additionally, these ramps can be placed together for longer transitions. Similar to the rubber variant, these ramps come in different sizes and gradients.
Additional Benefits of Installing Ramps
These ramps maintain mobility without compromising independence and safety for seniors. Its accessibility features, like ramps and grab rails, make the property more appealing to potential buyers, especially those with family members with mobility limitations.
To add to that, these accessories don’t just make life easier for seniors or individuals with physical limitations. They can provide easier home access for caregivers and guests who are transporting heavy goods such as groceries and medical equipment deliveries.
The ramps also offer a safe transfer out of the home in the event that the senior needs to be brought to the hospital.
Tips for Choosing and Installing a Ramp
When choosing home additions, it’s important to evaluate your options thoroughly to determine which would best suit your needs. That said, you should assess your home’s needs by factoring in space, incline or gradient, and senior mobility requirements.
When it comes to choosing a seller, it’s important to choose a reputable one that follows Australia’s ramp standards. Ramps should have a 1:8 gradient for rises less than 35mm, a 1:10 gradient for rises between 35mm and 190mm, and a 1:14 gradient for rises of 190mm and above.
Get Your Ramps from Equipsy Today
Wheelchair ramps are essential for users and other accessibility tool users. They offer convenient and safe access to elevated spaces, fostering independence. Australian brands like Equipsy offer home safety integrations to seniors and individuals with mobility limitations. Our ramps follow Australian safety standards to ensure maximum security. Get in touch with us today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you’re new to facing mobility issues or know someone who just recently got diagnosed with a movement disorder, you probably have some questions regarding these safety additions.
How do you choose a wheelchair ramp type?
Since ramps come in different types, forms, sizes, and gradients, it’s important to choose one that fits your needs. Ultimately, weight is a significant factor, rubber ramps tend to have better support for heavier weights than aluminium.
Are portable wheelchair ramps safe?
Yes, portable ramps are as safe as stationary ones, especially if you buy from reputable sellers. These moveable options from Equipsy are eco-friendly, durable, weather-proof, and completely removable.