Wheelchair Ramps and Making Life Accessible

The law may say that businesses and public buildings have to be wheelchair accessible. But, what contractors consider compliance and the reality of the situation are often two different things. Add to that the challenge of visiting friends and family, and it is easy to see why it is important to consider wheelchair ramps and making life accessible.

Public Challenges

If you are challenged by the mobility restrictions of being in a wheelchair, I can honestly say I know how you feel. Life would be much easier if the people who design parking spaces, parks and buildings had to live life sitting down for even half a day. For example, my town built a new community college. Asking for what the students would like in the new building, I spoke up for wheelchair accessibility. I even suggested sitting in a chair for better perspective. You guessed it! The handicapped parking is nowhere near the main entrance, and I thought I would never get around the door in the restroom.

Also, I absolutely hate shopping downtown! The curb cuts might be a block or two away from my business destination. Why should I have to go all the way down to the corner and back around to get to the store? Thankfully, someone is thinking about you and me. Now, you can find folding metal ramps that can be placed on any curb or sidewalk, so you do not have to go out of the way to shop. 

Private Challenges

However, the reason wheelchair ramps and making life accessible is so important to me is the ability to go places I have been denied, simply because I cannot get in the door without a ramp. For example, I have family living near, but they do not have a special wheelchair ramp leading to the front door. In the past, if we wanted to visit, it meant going out to eat or staying outside. I have spent more than one special event or holiday alone, because I could not get into someone's home.

Not anymore! A collapsible, metal wheelchair ramp has definitely made life more accessible, and my friends and family do not have to renovate their homes. Someone simply unfolds the ramp and places the lip of the ramp on the top step. The ramp fits neatly over the steps and down to the level sidewalk. Then, it is simply a matter of getting someone to help push me up the incline and into the house. Now, I do not have to miss family gatherings and it is easier to go visit.

The ramp is completely portable. It folds for better storage. You can even place it into the trunk and take it with you, when you go out of town. How many times have you gone somewhere, only to be denied access because there is no ramp? 

Economical Challenges

Of course, the steps and curbs you want to bypass may be different than those I deal with on a daily basis. Thankfully, not all wheelchair ramps are created equal. You can find ramps in various lengths and weights. For example, maybe you need a ramp for everyday use, but you cannot afford the costly reconstruction. You may want a sturdier ramp for regular use. You might also need a larger ramp, if you have a heavy electric wheelchair. You simply have to measure and consider the weight restrictions, before selecting the ramp that is right for you

In short, wheelchair ramps can make life accessible where there are no curb cuts or lifts. If steps keep you from visiting friends and family, a portable ramp can make the difference between missing out and having a great time. But, most importantly, a wheelchair ramp can make your own home accessible, even if you cannot afford costly renovations right now. It can make a big difference in your quality of life. I know a portable ramp changed mine.