Things to Consider When Renting Ramps for Wheelchairs
Renting ramps for wheelchairs can be an excellent temporary solution for households that require a wheelchair ramp on a short-term basis due to a visit from an elderly or wheelchair-bound relative, for a special event, or for a family member who is recovering from an accident or surgery.
Though the price should be taken into consideration when choosing a rental ramp, safety should be the most important factor in your decision. A reliable ramp rental will assure a safe and seamless experience for all involved.
Top Considerations for Wheelchair Ramp Rentals
With a variety of potential circumstances that might call for wheelchair ramp rental, choosing the right ramp for your specific needs is important. Choosing a ramp isn't as simple as finding one that’s the right size for your door; there are several things that should be taken into account when renting and installing a ramp.
1. Should You Rent or Buy the Ramp?
When a wheelchair ramp is needed for a special event or a visitor, renting a ramp is the most logical solution. However, when timelines are more uncertain—for example after surgery, in cases of end-of-life care, or when making aging-in-place home modifications, the question of whether to rent or buy may be more complicated.
Renting wheelchair ramps is certainly a more economical option for short-term use—generally a few days to a few months. Rentals also make financial sense when families are unsure about how long they will need the ramp or want to try it out before they buy.
2. Which Ramp Best Fits Your Requirements?
Wheelchair ramps come in many different forms, so it's important to choose a ramp that meets your family's needs. Be prepared to explain as much as possible to the ramp rental company representative, who can then advise you on the best option for your circumstances. The representative will ask you for information such as:
The measurements of the area your ramp needs to fit. Carefully measure the size of the area where you will place the ramp to ensure the best fit and most rapid installation.
Weight capacity. Some rental wheelchair ramps are more robust than others and can withstand more weight. If you are considering a portable wheelchair ramp, be aware that though they generally have the weight capacity to hold standard manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs are considerably heavier.
Inside vs. outside ramp. Outdoor ramps must be waterproof and comply with ADA ramp requirements.
Portable wheelchair ramp rentals. Depending on what and who you need your ramp for, portable ramp rental may be the best option.
3. Compliance with Legal Requirements
The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) lays out clear specifications about ramps and curb ramps, including how to install ramps, how wide they need to be, the maximum slope and rise, as well as how high the handrails must be. These stipulations are important to follow for the safety of the wheelchair user.
Though some people might be tempted to install a DIY ramp, these are often unsafe. Wheelchair ramps must be adapted to weather conditions, wear, and the needs of helpers pushing the wheelchair up or down the ramp. Choosing a reliable, ADA-approved ramp is the safest option for everyone.
4. Which Wheelchair Ramp Do I Need?
Wheelchair ramps come in several forms, each serving different needs:
Threshold ramps. These small ramps are designed to give access through doorways, sliding doors, steps, and curbs and typically offer 1-6 inches of clearance. These ramps are often used inside the home to facilitate free movement within it.
Portable ramps. These ramps are excellent solutions for travel or for having visitors at home. Portable ramps are especially helpful in homes with more than one obstacle between the vehicle and the doorway.
Modular ramps. These are larger, more robust ramps that hold up to 1000 lbs of weight and offer safety features for different weather conditions. A modular ramp is the best option to cover higher rises and longer distances.
Weather conditions are a particularly important safety consideration both for the wheelchair user and their helper. Pushing a wheelchair up a ramp in Denver, Colorado in winter is a very different prospect from pushing a wheelchair up a similar ramp in Arizona or Nevada.
5. Do You Need More than One Ramp?
If you are renting a temporary ramp for a house guest, or perhaps as a temporary mobility solution after surgery, the wheelchair user needs to be able to enter and exit the house and move through the house independently. With this in mind, more than one ramp may be necessary. Consider rubber threshold ramps for inside use and for any obstacles like steps that might require a ramp to navigate.
Choose a Reputable Supplier
A mobility device supplier with knowledgeable staff will be able to help you choose the best solution as far as wheelchair ramp rental. Accessibility experts can help you understand the differences between portable wheelchair ramps and foldable ramps and will help you decide on the best option for your home or special event. Installation and removal of the ramp is also an important consideration that you must discuss with your ramp provider, as a professional is often needed for ramp installation and removal.
Safety Comes First When Choosing a Wheelchair Ramp Rental
When choosing a rental wheelchair ramp, safety must be at the forefront of your mind. Choosing a ramp that fits your needs in terms of size, weight, and purpose will go a long way to ensuring a safe experience both for the wheelchair user and their assistants.
Be sure to go for a ramp that follows the ADA safety specifications, and choose the right model to accommodate your family's needs. Asking a store representative for advice and recommendations is often the best way to find the right rental wheelchair ramp for your needs.