Electric Wheelchair Ramps For Home and Building

Wheelchair ramps are inclined planes which allow wheeled equipments to be transported between different heights. Though initially built for wheelchairs' use, people with strollers, trolleys and carts can also make use of these wheelchair ramps. The multiple benefits of having a wheelchair ramp has made it a common sight inside publicly accessible buildings such as shopping malls and government agencies.In fact, some countries such as America has passed an act that dictates every building should be accessible by wheelchair users. Therefore, most buildings will choose a multipurpose wheelchair ramp over wheelchair lifts.

Most buildings will choose to have the permanent wheelchair ramp installed, this is done by bolting the ramp's handrail to the ground or cementing the whole structure to the ground. Permanent wheelchair ramps are for buildings which are have already identified the access point for the wheelchair users. Ramps are adjusted differently depending on vertical distance it needs to clear. If the stairs were to have a few steps only, a straight gently inclined wheelchair will be suitable. However, if the stairs are steep, a snaking wheelchair ramp will be more suitable as it will be unsightly to see a wheelchair ramp stretching all the way out to the main road outside the building. Moreover, the wheelchair ramp must adhere to international standards in terms of its steepness. It must not be steeper than 1 inch for 12 inches of distance. A gentle sloped wheelchair ramp is definitely the safest way for a wheelchair to ascend.

The traditional way of making wheelchair ramp is to use mainly concrete, however, there is a recent shift towards using steel and aluminum to build the ramp. The reason is that these metals are lighter than concrete and more importantly, they are constructed in a modular way. Sections can be welded together at the joints. It is also easy to remove and sell as used wheelchair ramps to other buildings.

The other type of ramp is the semi-permanent wheelchair ramp. These are structures which need a few strong men to carry into place and commonly used for events where manual and electric wheelchair users are expected. They are temporary set up and usually rented by the event organizers.

The last type of ramp is the portable type. This is usually made of aluminum and carried by the side of the wheelchair user. The lightweight of the portable wheelchair ramps makes it easy to bring around. They are also durable compared to other less desired materials such as wood.

As portable wheelchair ramps are quite personal to the manual electric wheelchair users, it is important the user considers what type of wheelchair is he using and the corresponding safest incline required of the portable wheelchair ramp.You should also know the length of the portable ramp and where will it be deployed most of the time. I will discuss a few of the portable wheelchair ramps available in the market: Roll up ramps can be unrolled into short ramps of 3 or 5 feet. Their light weight makes this kind the lightest of all wheelchair ramps and easiest to carry around. However, they are limited to use for lower steps.
Single fold ramps are sturdy and slightly heavier than roll up ramps.They can easily negotiate mid level inclines with ease. The only drawback is that single-fold ramp does not become smaller when folded, it still takes up a considerable volume to the wheelchair user. Hence, it will troublesome to bring this along your travels. Multiple fold ramps come in 4 sections which are folded to form a heavy 12 feet portable wheelchair ramp. For their robustness, it can handle the heaviest of wheelchairs and steep steps, it can be used to enter vehicles too.

Track ramps is the last variation of portable wheelchair ramps. The length is adjustable depending on the steps and steepness it needs to overcome. Track ramps are sold in pairs. Each ramp forms a track to keep the movement of the wheelchair in a straight manner up and down the ramp. Wheelchair users will not have the danger of veering off the track. Sometimes, stair lifts for building are used as replacement for ramps.

Used electric wheelchair ramps have different specifications depending on the use of it within the environment. In the case of home use, it recommended to use a 3:12 slope that denotes one foot of ramp for every 3 inches vertical rise. As for business use, the ratio will be 1:12 which is a gentler slope than residential use.

Electric wheelchair ramp for building

Wheelchair Singles Looking To Mingle

Did you ever realize that even in a wheelchair there are so many things you can do to pep up your life? You can make things work your way where you will get the most out of every thing that you take on.

If you are a single who has been confined to a wheelchair then one of the many options open to you is too look for fellow wheelchair users. Nowadays there are so many options for singles. You can take up sports or even something in the artistic line. Here you will meet like-minded people who boost your confidence in yourself as a person.

The internet is yet another avenue open to you. There are a lot of dating sites on the internet where you will find people looking for friends and companions. Ask around your other friends who have used these sites and get an opinion about these from them. There will be something that meets your ideas and you will find people who like the same things you do.

Its one thing to be single in a wheelchair and quite another to actually be someone who will make the most out of his life and let life look for him rather than him shying away from it. If sports and art is not your forte then look around the internet and you will find that there are book lover corners on the dating sites. If you like debating various issues that you feel strongly about then there is something on those lines too.

There is a complete world out on the net and all this you can get sitting at home. It is easy to get chatting with someone and who knows you just might find that special someone who will take you out of the singles club.

Once you find a dating site of your choice, register for it and fill in your personal profile. This is what others will read which will tell them a lot about the kind of person you are.

Be truthful and honest in your self portrait and you will find truth and honesty being returned. Ensure that you learn how to look out for fraudsters who are out to fleece people. Sites which ask for money should be scrutinized properly before you do pay the fee.

Once all the formalities are complete, you are ready to open up a new world for yourself. Start chatting right away and make new friends. Chatting is a good way to get to know someone. It has the right amount of anonymity and you can withhold whatever information you want to till you are sure about the person you are talking to.

If you are planning to meet any of your friends from the chat rooms then ensure that you are meeting in daylight in a public place. You must be able to trust the person to some extent and it is alright to take a friend along on the first date. Is it not amazing that you started off as a wheelchair single ready to mingle and ended up going on a date? The start of many more to come...

Are you looking for one of the best wheelchair dating sites on the internet? If so, visit WheelchairDatingClub.com now. We have a huge database of friendly people who want to meet you. Wheelchair dating and wheelchair personals dating have never been this easy! Wheelchair Dating Club not only has many members, but it also has many ways to meet them through chatrooms, instant messaging and of course email. Membership is free, so sign up right now.

The Wheelchair Hoist For Increased Mobility

When your mobility becomes limited, it would be nice to have a wheelchair that could allow you to get around. However, to optimize your newfound freedom, you need a way to take that chair wherever you go. A wheelchair hoist is the best choice for chair transport. A few of today's wheelchairs are the lightweight folding kind. There are also electric wheelchairs that provide a quick and comfortable way for the disadvantaged people to move around. However, the weight of these chairs, with their motors and batteries, make lifting them a task that would strain even the strongest of men. Wheelchair hoists are available for both folding chairs and the heavier electric models.

There are several different types of wheelchair hoists that can meet your requirements. These can either be operated by passengers or drivers. If you are able to get into the car without your wheelchair, there are rooftop hoists that will lift the chair to the roof of your vehicle. It keeps you from having to stow it yourself, which may not be possible once inside the vehicle, and frees up your trunk and backseat for other things.

The boot hoists transfer your chair to the trunk or hatchback of the vehicle. The door to the trunk area will open automatically and the hoist will move to the front of the car, so that the folded chair can be placed in the cradle & moved into the back, where the door will close automatically. These wheelchair hoists are programmed to suit your particular vehicle.

Rear seat loading hoists are designed for mini-vans and other vehicles with sliding doors, although some four-door cars can accommodate these hoists by modifying a rear door. These hoists are fitted in the boot, and they pivot the folded chair into the rear seat. It is operated using a remote control.

Mounted and vertical hoists are available for lifting an empty or occupied chair into a vehicle, or even for use inside the home to help you get to places a wheelchair could not normally go, such as going up and down the stairs. These are useful for both kinds of chairs, but are more valuable tools when using the heavier electric chairs. These hoists are perfect for enabling a van to carry a mobility-impaired passenger.

No matter what kind of chair you use, hoists add to your freedom by allowing you to get where you need to go, and take your wheelchair with you without any difficulty. Safe, durable, and easy to use, wheelchair hoists are reasonably affordable, can easily be installed, and most often, can covered by insurance plans.

There are many kinds of hoists and lifts that can improve the lives of the disabled and make both work and play easier. Find out more about the uses of the ladder hoist and lifting slings by visiting my site.

Wheelchair Ramp Guidelines

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility guidelines suggest ramp specifications that include preferred slopes, width, landings, surfaces, handrails, and environmental conditions. The next area to the point list of these factors for building, purchasing, and using ramps for wheelchairs:

Wheelchair ramp slopes
A ratio of rise over run is used to define ramp slopes (e. g. 16 inches of level run for each one inch of upright rise would be expressed as 1:16). The preferred ADA ramp slope is between 1:16 and 1:20. New construction slopes shall not exceed 1:12. Slope alone is not the only issue to consider; ramp distance and maximum rise are to be minimized. Maximum rise shall not exceed 30 inches (760 mm), and ramp distance should avoid lengths greater than 30 feet (9 m).

Wheelchair ramp width and landing
Ramp widths shall not be less than 36 inches (915 mm) and apparent. Landings, at both the top and bottom, shall be level and accommodate the slope of the connecting ramp. The next added landing features are necessary:

• Landings shall minimally be as extensive as the ramp.
• Landing length shall at smallest amount be 60 inches (1, 525 mm).
• Landings with a direct turn require a minimum of 60 x 60 inches (1, 525 mm x 1, 525 mm).

Wheelchair ramp handrails
Wheelchair ramp handrail guidelines are for adults. If children are the most important users, such as in schools, then a following, subordinate rail should be provided. If two handrails are being used, one above the other, a minimum distance between rails shall be 9 inches to avoid entrapment. Handrails shall be a maximum of 28 inches from the surface of the ramp to the top of the rail. Ramp rises greater than 6 inches (150 mm), or level projections superior than 72 inches (1, 830 mm), require railings on both sides of the ramp. Handrails are not necessary for curb ramps and ramps next to audience seating. The next added handrail features are necessary:

• Both sides of ramp segments require handrails; where doglegs and switch - backs exist, the inside railing must be continuous.
• If handrails are continuous, they shall extend 12 inches (305 mm) beyond the end of the ramp, and run equivalent to the ground.
• The apparent space between the wall and handrail shall be a minimum of 1 ½ inches (38 mm).
• Gripping surfaces shall be continuous.
• Handrail ending shall be round or returned smoothly to post, walls, or ground.
• Handrails shall not rotate, or otherwise move, within their fittings.

Wheelchair ramp surfaces, edges, and environments
Ramps for wheelchairs require surfaces compliant with ADA regulations for such. Ramp edges shall be provided if drop offs exist. These edges can be in the form of walls, lips, or other projections that are at a minimum of 2 inches (50 mm) in height. Design and construction of outside ramps for wheelchairs shall not allow for the accumulation of water or snow at the approach or on the ramp.

Chad Hoffmann is founder of Ramp for Wheelchair; a sight devoted to what you need to know about building, or purchasing wheelchair ramps. More about this article is found at Wheelchair Ramp Guidelines.

Wheelchair Bound Tools

It is to be expected that many wheelchair bound people would require some extra help in the performance of their daily tasks. These duties can range from cooking a simple meal to the act of taking a simple shower. With the increased technology coupled with the design engineer's great imagination these wheelchair users are beginning to discover many gadgets on the market which can assist them in the everyday tasks which most of us take for granted. Should you are a loved one or friend be seeking this sort of information you can begin your quest with a careful search of the internet.

Since the wheelchair users require help when they are attempting to perform minor tasks which the internet offers them a great opportunity for locating what may benefit them and their particular life style.

Since the most difficult part of being physically challenged is the very act of obtaining a shower those individuals who are handicapped may find refuge in the site since it offers many optional accessories such as accommodating shower chairs, etc. People who are bound to their wheelchairs will surely feel a bit more comfortable knowing that there are websites that are accumulating information and products in order to create better lives for them.

Some websites offers links relating to the physically challenged individuals as well as their families and friends concerning topics that can aid them towards achieve a more comfortable life. Some even presents products for those people who may have difficulties in grooming themselves.

For those people dependent upon wheelchairs for their mobility this website tries to make life a little less complicated. For the person who is stuck in a wheelchair from morning to night life can be a bit difficult, however with the help of the internet the person can find as much assistance and help as they would require.

You can readily locate many items of interest for the wheelchair confined person that would make their life better. Becoming a self-reliant person again has never been easier for the wheelchair user then now

Copyright @2008 Joseph Parish.

For more information relating to survival visit us at http://www.wordwriter.info

Invacare Wheelchair Parts - What to Know Before You Attempt a Wheelchair Repair

As with any type of mechanical device, your Invacare wheelchair, with its moving parts (and in some cases, motor and battery), has to have all parts working smoothly in order for it to function correctly. Proper wheelchair maintenance is an important part of keeping a wheelchair in peak condition, and is something that should be performed on a regular basis. Still, there will be times when, despite proper maintenance, replacement of some of your Invacare wheelchair parts will be necessary.

Fortunately, a number of Invacare wheelchair parts can be easily purchased, and repairs can be made yourself. This article will explore what kinds of wheelchair parts are readily available and what things to consider when attempting any type of wheelchair repair.

To begin, keep in mind that Invacare directions should always be followed when using, maintaining, or replacing parts on your wheelchair. In addition, always be certain that you are using the correct parts: check part numbers and make sure that what you are purchasing will fit your Invacare wheelchair. Some things are interchangeable from one manufacturer to another and others are not. Some parts are actually universal. Before ordering, take measurements, check the Invacare specifications, and contact your parts vendor directly if you have questions. As most Invacare wheelchair parts are readily available online, purchasing through a reputable, secure site is important: if the company does not have a way for you to contact them directly with questions, order elsewhere.

So what kinds of parts can easily be replaced without you taking your wheelchair for an expensive repair job?

* Wheelchair castors are the small wheels positioned at the front of your chair, and help provide your direction when moving. Castors are available in a range of sizes, from 3" to 8".
* Rear Wheel Assemblies and Tires are available in a variety of options that can affect the performance of your wheelchair.
* If you have a powered wheelchair, then you will need to replace your wheelchair battery at regular intervals. In addition, you may need to replace the battery charger as well.
* Front riggings (including footrests and elevating leg rests) are essential to the comfort of the wheelchair user.
* Anti-tip devices are essential for the safety of the wheelchair user.
* Arm rests, cushions, brakes, and cross-braces all can wear out or need replacement at times, and are relatively easy to take care of on your own.

Regular and timely maintenance of your wheelchair, and replacement of worn or broken Invacare wheelchair parts will insure that your wheelchair operates at it's optimum performance, and will provide you with the safety and mobility that you need. Take good care of your Invacare wheelchair and it will reward you with years of faithful service in return.

N. M. Bobby was the caregiver and advocate for her elderly parents for nearly a decade. In that time, she personally experienced first hand, many of the physical, emotional, and financial challenges of adult children who care for their aging parents. She discusses many of the issues related to caring for the elderly and disabled on her blog, Aging Parent Conversations, and also provides a guide to simple wheelchair repair and replacing Invacare wheelchair parts.

Pediatric Wheelchair - Everything You Need to Know

A pediatric wheelchair provide independence, convenience and safety for children who require a wheelchair to get to places. Pediatric wheelchairs, especially those that are motorized, are available in a wide range of materials, features and styles. You can choose from pediatric manual wheelchairs, pediatric power wheelchairs, used pediatric wheelchairs and even sport pediatric wheelchairs.

The basic way to establish whether you're getting the right pediatric wheelchair or not is to first assess what your child or patient specifically needs. You should evaluate what features and accessories are most helpful based on the individual's case. Your next step is to make sure you purchase the wheelchair from a widely trusted manufacturer or distributor. Finally, make sure you are looking at solid return policies, expansive warranties and flexible financing options.

Now let's get more into assessing the quality of the wheelchair you're considering. The materials and features available today include lightweight design, titanium materials and attachable containers such as bags and baskets. Lightweight designs are great for easier portability and maneuverability. Titanium is an ideal material because it makes the whole construction of the wheelchair stronger and more resilient. You may want to have bags or baskets incorporated with the wheelchair so lunch bags and other items such as groceries can be easily organized and transported.

Before you buy a pediatric wheelchair, look online for reviews and customer feedback. You may also ask for recommendations from suppliers of pediatric wheelchairs as well as medical staff, family and friends. Of course, a really good source to know more about which type of wheelchair to choose is your child's doctor.

Get the latest online deals on vertical wheelchair lift. Discover your options and select the wheelchair lift that fits your needs.

Wheelchair for Temporary Use - Options Available

Many a times, certain situation arises that may need use of wheelchair temporarily. If one is nursing from any accident injury causing physical confinement, if the resting period extends to longer durations, then the appointment of care taker for so long might not be a financially feasible option. Instead one can make use of the assisting devices like wheelchairs to have partial mobility. This might even eliminate the need for a care taker to be present all the time.

There are many options available when getting a wheelchair. If finances permit, one can buy a new wheelchair and sell it again after it serves the purpose. Buying and selling must be done only after little research. Hence, when considering buying a new wheelchair, one must search for local dealers and compare prices and quality of each dealer. The quality of the wheelchair should not be compromised with, otherwise it will not fetch you good returns when reselling it to seconds show room or dealer handling used wheelchairs. Always check for proper insurance cover plans. If possible get to know about any available extended insurance cover plan from the dealer. The one who do not feel convenient to use a second wheelchair might opt for this kind of option for it ensures the user quality and guarantee.

The other option is buying from the dealer who deals with used wheelchairs. This can work out feasibly well, if the user needs the wheelchair for very long durations that it might be easy to buy it rather than rent for so long. If the person is ready to adjust with little inconvenience caused due to used wheelchair, then it might be the best option for long term usage purposes. One must ensure that wheelchair is insured properly. Generally, used products do not have cover. So, getting in touch with an insurance agent in this regard helps one save insurance related hassles in the future.

If the use of wheelchair is for very short duration, then renting proposal works out very well. One is saved of getting rid of the wheelchair, after it has served its purpose. There are many agencies who offer this service. Comparing the price and checking for quality are the basic things to do, for clinching a good deal. One may have to book well in advance for delivery. Choosing the right option must be done after working out the required time of usage and need.

Come to our informative website for the latest on portable wheelchair ramps and for information on Used electric wheelchair.