Get Outdoors More Easily With a Home Ramp

For people with disabilities or other mobility limitations, the outdoors can be an intimidating, often frightening space that's frequently difficult to access. However, a slight yet life-changing home improvement can give you easy access to the world around you.

Installing a home ramp improves your safety, mobility, and independence. Whether using it for walkers, wheelchairs, or scooters, a ramp helps you safely get onto porches, up and down driveways, and out to explore the yard.

Things to Consider Before Installing a Ramp

Assessing personal needs and requirements before purchasing a home ramp is essential. Think about how frequently you will use it, and what type of mobility aid it has to accommodate. A ramp built for you to use with or without a walker will look different from a ramp built for daily wheelchair access. Here are some other points to consider:

Permanent Versus Temporary

Decide whether you need a permanent ramp or one that is temporary and portable. Are you expected to recover from surgery, or are you still deciding between assisted living versus in-home care? A rental or portable ramp might be just what's needed. If your mobility limitations are permanent, you may invest in a fixed, built-in ramp.

Size and Access Point

Choosing the best location for your ramp is critical. The access point you choose should consider which door—front, back, garage door, or patio—offers the easiest and safest access. A slope ratio of 1:12 is recommended by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

This means that for every inch of rise, there is at least 12 inches of ramp length. At this ratio, the ramp won't be too steep. The width of the ramp should be at least 36 inches for most mobility devices to pass through safely.

Types of Home Ramps

There are several different kinds of ramps for varying needs and budgets.

• Modular aluminum ramps are durable, weather-resistant, and adjustable. They have been a long-term popular choice and are easy to add to or change.

• Wooden ramps are attractive in front of your home, but be sure to consider the amount of maintenance the wood will require.

• Concrete ramps are durable and ageless for homeowners who desire a permanent fix. Installation, however, can be expensive.

• Portable ramps are lightweight and foldable, ideal for temporary use or travel. They're a common choice for short-term rehabilitation or to accommodate guests.

• Threshold ramps are small, inexpensive, and great for getting over a single step or elevated doorways.

Cost Implications and Funding Resources

Expenses vary greatly based on the type and size of the ramp. New ramps can cost around $500 to more than $5,000. There is also a wide range of rates for used ramps, which may be more affordable. For those with short-term needs, renting is a popular choice because it allows them to try out equipment without requiring upfront capital for purchasing. 

The good news is that funding resources are available to cover the cost. 

• Medicare or Medicaid may pay for some of the cost, mainly if the item is a medical necessity. 

• Veterans might qualify for grants through the Veterans' Administration. 

• Nonprofits can often help pay for accessibility modifications. 

Finally, consider the cost and safety of a do-it-yourself build versus hiring a professional installer.

An Investment in Independence

Investing in a home ramp increases accessibility and bolsters independence, safety, and quality of life. Installing the right ramp can open a door to the great outdoors, even if it's only your backyard. Discuss your mobility needs with your family and your caregiver so that you can make the right decision.