Best Portable Wheelchair Ramps: Helping the Elderly Get Around!

Best Budget Ramp

Extra Wide-31' Wide, 24' Long, 800 lbs Weight Capacity, Wheelchair Ramp, Ramps for Wheelchairs, Wheelchair Ramps for Home, Portable Wheelchair Ramp, Wheelchair Ramps for Steps, Aluminum Alloy

Rose Home Extra Wide Wheelchair Ramp

An affordable lightweight ramp with an impressive 800 lb weight capacity

Longest Portable Ramp

Titan Ramps 7' Multi-Fold Aluminum Wheelchair Ramp - 600 lb. Capacity

Titan Ramps Portable Multi Fold

Ultra-long ramp ideal for navigating everything from pickup trucks to entry steps

Best Threshold Ramp

Prairie View Industries TH1032 Threshold Ramp, 10 x 32 Inch

Prairie View Threshold Ramp

High-traction threshold ramp that supports up to 600 pounds
Most Portable
Drive Medical Portable Wheelchair Ramp
  • 3-foot aluminum loading ramp
  • Perforated slots prevent water from collecting
  • Foldable with handy travel bag and carry handle
  • Supports 600 pounds
Longest Ramp
Titan Ramps 7 FT Multi Fold Ramp
  • 7-feet long with 29-inch width and 3-inch height
  • Includes nylon carrying handle
  • Can be used semi-permanently
  • Wide, slip-resistant design
  • Weight capacity of up to 600-pounds
Threshold Ramp
Rubber Threshold Ramp
  • 3-inch rise with beveled edges
  • Other heights available
  • Durable, recycled rubber
  • Non-slip grooved tread surface
  • Support up to 2200lbs / 1000 kg

It’s easy to take for granted the ability to get where you want to go. When seniors begin to have difficulty with mobility, and start to rely on a walker or wheelchair to get around, suddenly the world is a different place. 

Even something as simple as getting over an inch-high threshold to get out onto the patio can become impossible.

Permanent ramps and home remodels can be expensive, complicated and time consuming. 

Portable wheelchair ramps offer a great alternative. They can be placed semi-permanently, and can offer a simple, affordable and immediate solution to seniors having trouble accessing areas of their own home, deck or patio. They can also be used to easily create an emergency exit out the back of a home that has only one wheelchair-accessible exit.

Portable wheelchair ramps can easily be taken along in a vehicle, or brought out of storage for quick placement and temporary use. This opens up a number of opportunities that may otherwise be unavailable for those with mobility devices:

  • Visiting friends and family members’ homes.
  • Getting into restaurants or other buildings without good wheelchair access.
  • Accessing vacation homes, inns or bed & breakfasts that may have curbs or thresholds to step over.
  • Loading a wheelchair into the back of the van or pick up truck.

Portable wheelchair ramps are also helpful to keep on hand to enable a wheelchair-bound loved one to visit your home.

When it comes to choosing the best portable wheelchair ramp for the elderly, there is no one single best option – different features will fulfill different situations and needs. 

Below, we’ll help you decide how to choose a portable ramp for your own home, choosing between features and benefits that work with your needs.

However, if we had to choose one, we’d go with the Rose Home Fashion Extra Wide Wheelchair Ramp as the overall best due to its quality craftsmanship, versatility, portability, and economical price point. It will simply and effectively meet the needs of many seniors.

Depending on your senior’s unique needs and preferences, a different portable ramp may be a better choice. Let’s explore some great options below!

Top Picks for Best Portable Wheelchair Ramps

1. MABIS DMI Portable Wheelchair Ramp

Best Dual Track Ramp
DMI Wheelchair Ramp,Entry Threshold Handicap Ramp, FSA Eligible, is Portable and Adjustable from 3-5 Ft Long, 4.5 In Wide for Entryway, Doors,Steps,Shed or Curb, 2 Ramps Included

MABIS DMI Portable Wheelchair Ramp

Dual-track portable wheelchair ramp

U-shaped tracks perfect for steps and curbs while staying lightweight and ultra-portable

About: The MABIS DMI Portable Wheelchair Ramp is a set of two lightweight tracks that can easily be set up or moved as needed.

Key features:

  • Telescopes and retracts for easy portability or storage
  • Adjusts from 3-5 feet with simple push of a button
  • Set of two tracks
  • Includes nylon storage bag
  • Safety rails

This non-skid portable wheelchair ramp is designed to work well with steps, curbs, and vehicles alike. It features U-shaped tracks for maximum stability, with 2.25 inch track rails that enhance safety and prevent accidentally leaving the track. 

Each track is 4.5 inches wide, with a full 4 inches of navigable width. This width allows these tracks to handle occupied wheelchairs with the assistance of another person.

Because the ramp is made from two separate telescoping tracks, this portable ramp is one of the most portable options out there, with each track able to collapse to just 3 feet long for convenient storage.

Each track of the ramp weighs a mere 6 pounds. They’re constructed from durable, lightweight aluminum which resists rust and supports 600 pounds between the pair, which should be plenty of weight capacity for most standard wheelchairs and users. 

Product Specifications:

  • Length: Adjustable between 3-5 feet 
  • Width: 4.5 inches wide
  • Weight: 6 pounds per track –12 pounds total
  • Weight capacity: 300 pounds per track – 600 pounds total
  • Type: Telescoping Dual Track
  • Installation Difficulty: Easy, no tool assembly and set up
  • Price Range: Mid-range
  • Portability: Very portable, lightweight with carrying bag
  • Other Important Features: Adjustable length

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Adjustable length
  • Great for portability

Cons

  • Not suitable for occupied wheelchair use without an assistant
  • Not recommended for powered scooters or wheelchairs, chairs with offset wheels or chairs with less than 2.5 inches of ground clearance of the push ring

2. Titan Ramps Portable Multi Fold Wheelchair Ramp

Longest Portable Ramp… and Best Vehicle Ramp
Titan Ramps 7' Multi-Fold Aluminum Wheelchair Ramp - 600 lb. Capacity

Titan Ramps Portable Multi Fold Wheelchair Ramp

Longest portable ramp

Ultra-long, 7 ft ramp that’s perfect for accessing everything from porches to pickup trucks.

About: The Titan Ramps Portable Multi Fold Wheelchair Ramp takes two distinctions in today’s roundup. It’s extra length combined with easy portability means it is ideally suited to use with a van or pick up truck.  Already one of the longest portable ramps at 7 feet, it is also available in an 8 foot length.

Key features:

  • Easily folds down like a suitcase with a comfortable nylon handle
  • Extra long length for accessing vehicles or multiple steps
  • Angled lip provides added security

At seven feet long, the Titan Wheelchair Ramp is the ideal length for accessing porches, landings, steps, minivans or pickup trucks. The longer wheelchair ramp length also results in a gentler incline that may put some seniors more at ease. 

The Titan is wide and sturdy enough to handle electric wheelchairs and motorized scooters, but despite its durable construction, it’s able to fold down considerably, with surprisingly little effort.

When compacted it’s only 4 feet long and 15 inches wide. 

This Titan portable ramp features a nylon handle for portability, although since the ramp weights 46 pounds it can be a little heavy for some seniors to carry. 

Fashioned from corrosion-resistant aluminum, this Titan ramp features a flexible design that’s portable and convenient along with durable construction. It includes a slip-resistant surface and can be a good option for seniors looking for a semi-permanent outdoor ramp. 

Product Specifications:

  • Length: 84 inches
  • Width: 29 inches
  • Weight: 46 pounds
  • Weight capacity: 600 pounds
  • Type: Multifold
  • Installation difficulty: Minor assembly required
  • Price Range: Upper-middle
  • Portability: Good
  • Other Important Features: Folds down like a suitcase with handle

Pros

  • Safe for motorized wheelchairs and scooters
  • Suitable for semi-permanent mounting and easy portability both

Cons

  • Assembly may be a bit challenging for those with reduced strength or dexterity

3. Rose Home Fashion Extra Wide Wheelchair Ramp

Best Budget Ramp
Extra Wide-31' Wide, 24' Long, 800 lbs Weight Capacity, Wheelchair Ramp, Ramps for Wheelchairs, Wheelchair Ramps for Home, Portable Wheelchair Ramp, Wheelchair Ramps for Steps, Aluminum Alloy

Rose Home Fashion Extra Wide Wheelchair Ramp

High weight capacity wheelchair ramp

Boasts an impressive 800 lb weight capacity plus built-in handle with lightweight design for easy portability.

About: The Rose Home Fashion Extra Wide Wheelchair Ramp is an inexpensive, highly portable and sturdy solution to traversing a curb or single step. This portable ramp is extra wide and boasts an impressive weight capacity of 800 lbs. 

Key Features:

  • Generous 31 inch width
  • High weight capacity
  • Slip-resistant design
  • Built in carrying handle

This Rose Wheelchair Ramp includes a built-in handle and user friendly, lightweight design for easy portability. 

Its anti-slip features include a texture coated surface and rubber padding on the bottom, providing extra traction. Stainless steel hinges and extra sturdy construction support more than most ramps, up to 800 pounds – it can support powered wheelchairs and scooters too!

Product Specifications:

  • Length: 24 inch
  • Width: 31 inch
  • Weight: 13 pounds
  • Weight capacity: 800 pounds
  • Type: Single Fold
  • Installation difficulty: No
  • Price Range: Economical
  • Portability: Easily portable with low weight and handle
  • Other Important Features: Carrying handle

Pros

  • Extra wide
  • High weight capacity
  • Easily portable

Cons

  • For use with single steps or curbs only

4. Drive Medical Single Fold Portable Wheelchair Ramp

Best for Small Heights
Drive Medical STDS1094 Portable Wheelchair and Scooter Ramp, 3 Feet

Drive Medical Single Fold Portable Wheelchair Ramp

Sturdy single-step ramp

This 3-foot long ramp is ideal for single steps or curbs. Includes a handle for easy carrying, or can be used for semi-permanent placement.

About: The Drive Medical Single Fold Portable Wheelchair Ramp is designed for both easy portability and durable semi-permanent installation. Made for use with a single step, it offers decent quality at an economical price point. 

Key features:

  • Slots allow water to drain from ramp
  • Generous 30 inch width
  • Features easy-carry handle
  • Comes with carrying bag

The Drive Medical Single Fold Wheelchair Ramp is 3 feet in length and designed to be used with a single step or curb up to 6 inches in height.

This ramp’s lightweight aluminum construction, carrying handle, and included carrying bag allow for it to be easily portable – plus the ramp weighs only 14 lbs! It arrives fully assembled and only needs to be unfolded and set down where desired.

This portable ramp is durable enough for use with a powered wheelchair or motorized scooter, and is also suitable for semi-permanent placement.

It includes drainage holes that prevent rain water from accumulating on the surface of the ramp and becoming slick, which will be especially beneficial for elderly individuals who live in regions that experience frequent rain. 

It also features predrilled holes for securing the ramp to a threshold for additional stability, if desired.

Product Specifications:

  • Length: 37 inches
  • Width: 28.5 inches
  • Weight: 14 pounds
  • Weight capacity: 600 pounds
  • Type: Single fold
  • Installation difficulty: No assembly required, easy to set up
  • Price Range: Economical
  • Portability: Carry Handle and Bag
  • Other Important Features: Drainage slots

Pros

  • Lightweight and portable
  • Suitable for semi-permanent placement
  • Generous 30 inch width
  • Budget friendly

Cons

  • Not recommended for more than one step
  • No non-slip coating

5. EZ-Access Transitions Modular Aluminum Entry Ramp

Best Ramp for Varying Heights
EX-ACCESS TRANSITIONS 3 Inch Portable Self Supporting Aluminum Modular Entry Threshold Ramp Ideal for Doorways and Raised Landings

EZ-Access Transitions Modular Aluminum Entry Ramp

Designed for semi-permanent placement

Lightweight, heavy-duty aluminum ramp for single-step entry up to 6 inches in height. Also offers customizable interlocking segments for a custom fit.

About: The EZ-Access Transitions Modular Aluminum Entry Ramp accommodates single step entryways up to about 6 inches in height. Using a unique system of interlocking segments, this modular ramp can be customized to fit the area exactly. 

Key Features:

  • Lip free design allows ample clearance for door swing
  • Interlocking segments for completely customized fit
  • Anti-slip grooves

The EZ-Access Entry Ramp is available in heights of 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 inches. The design also features a 0.25 inch pivoting top flap for even more adjustability and smooth ramp exit.

The extensions slide easily into one another to create a smooth, sturdy slanted surface capable of supporting up to 700 pounds. 

The lightweight, heavy duty aluminum boasts durable construction and has an anti-slip grooved surface with excellent traction. Pre-drilled holes in the top and bottom allow for extra secure installation, if desired, and hardware is included. This EZ-Access portable ramp is perfect for semi-permanent placement and great for seniors who need to use a wheelchair daily for entering and exiting their home.

Product Specifications:

  • Length (height): 1-6 inches, depending on model
  • Width: 34 inches
  • Weight: 3-20 pounds, depending on model
  • Weight capacity: 700 pounds
  • Type: Modular
  • Installation difficulty: Low. Segments easily slide into one another. Ramp can be screwed into place with included hardware for additional stability, if desired
  • Price Range: Low-Mid
  • Portability: Semi-permanent
  • Other Important Features: Interchangeable extensions

Pros

  • Completely customizable length and height
  • Extruded non-slip surface

Cons

  • No safety lip on ramp (since this also means it won’t interfere with door swinging outward, it could be a pro in some circumstances)
  • No carrying handle

6. Prairie View Industries Threshold Ramp

Best Threshold Ramp
Prairie View Industries TH1032 Threshold Ramp, 10 x 32 Inch

Prairie View Industries Threshold Ramp

Economical threshold ramp

Ideal for entryways and thresholds, this ramp features a high-traction surface for protection from slipping and supports up to 600 pounds.

About: This Prairie View Industries Threshold Ramp is an easy and economical solution to accessing areas in the home or garage with a threshold rise of ½-¾ inch. It can be simply set down in place as is, or mounted to the threshold using provided hardware for additional security.

Key features:

  • High traction non-slip surface
  • Holes and hardware for optional extra-secure installation
  • For indoor or outdoor use
  • Lightweight entry ramp

This portable ramp is designed to attach to the edge of a small threshold to allow passage through an inward-swinging doorway with a rise of about ½-¾ inch.

Supporting up to 600 pounds, the Prairie View Threshold Ramp is made of lightweight aluminum and features a high-traction surface to provide protection against slipping.

Product Specifications:

  • Length: 10 inches
  • Width: 32 inches
  • Weight: 4 pounds
  • Weight capacity: 600 pounds
  • Type: Threshold ramp
  • Installation difficulty: No assembly. Easy to set down in place to use as is, or secure with included hardware
  • Price Range: Economical
  • Portability: Easy
    Other Important Features: Installation holes and hardware for optional extra-secure mounting 

Pros

  • Pre-punched holes for easy installation, with hardware included
  • Lightweight
  • Economical

Cons

  • Outward swinging door could potentially catch on this ramp
  • Only for use in small thresholds between ½-¾ inch high

7. Rubber Threshold Ramp

Another Great Doorway Ramp
VEVOR 3' Rise Recycled Rubber Threshold Ramp for Wheelchairs & Scooters - Non-Slip Surface, 33069 Lbs Load Capacity

VEVOR Rubber Threshold Ramp

Simple and easy threshold ramp

Featuring a unique beveled design, this ramp makes smooth transitioning from any angle.

About: The VEVOR Threshold Ramp is made of rubber, offering strength with slip-resistance. It can be ordered in a variety of sizes (up to 4 inches in height) to work for a variety of door jambs or entry way lips.

Key features:

  • Over 2,000 lb weight capacity limit
  • Unique beveled design allows for smooth approach from any angle
  • Slip-resistant beveled design

The VEVOR Threshold Ramp is intended for indoor or outdoor use. An excellent solution for entryways, patios, or sliding glass doors, this ramp is beveled for a smooth approach from any angle. 

This threshold ramp is available in a variety of sizes, from 1.5 to 4 inches, with widths between 35-43 inches.

These ramps don’t require any kind of installation, as they come as one solid piece.

Product Specifications:

  • Length: Varies
  • Width: 35.5 – 42 inches
  • Weight: 29 pounds
  • Weight capacity: 2,200 lbs
  • Type: non-folding, rubber
  • Installation Difficulty: Easy temporary installation right out of the box.
  • Price Range: Mid
  • Portability: Easy portability with temporary placement
  • Other Important Features: beveled sides for smooth approach from any angle

Pros

  • High weight limit
  • Extremely slip resistant

Cons

  • No handle for easy carrying
  • Only suitable for thresholds (4 inch max height) 

Things to Consider When Choosing a Portable Wheelchair Ramp

Some seniors need a portable wheelchair ramp only once in a while. They may need something to: 

  • Keep in the car for the occasional location without wheelchair access.
  • Keep in the closet to quickly pull out for guests to better access their entry way.
  • Help load a wheelchair into a van or truck.

Other seniors opt to set up a portable ramp in a semi-permanent fashion, to enable access to their home on an ongoing basis without the trouble or expense of adding a permanent ramp to their home.

It’s important to take the time to understand the options when choosing a portable wheelchair ramp, so that your senior will end up with the right selection for their specific needs.

portable wheelchair ramps

Types of Portable Wheelchair Ramps

There are many different types of portable wheelchair ramps, each with its own advantages in different situations.

Solid or Non-Folding Ramps

Solid or non-folding ramps are simply one-piece platforms designed to be relocated as needed, varying in length from around 2 – 10 feet. 

The larger ones may not be easy to transport due to their hefty size. They are ideal for permanent or semi-permanent use, but if they are secured for permanent use, local building codes may apply. Make sure to check with the local building department before going this route. 

Single-Fold or Suitcase Ramps

Single-fold portable ramps, sometimes called suitcase ramps, generally fold in half lengthwise so they can easily be carried. They often feature handles and resemble a suitcase when folded up.

Single fold ramps are particularly useful for seniors to carry in their vehicle to access locations on the go. Simply bring out the ramp, unfold it and place it over the curb or entryway, then fold it back up and tuck it back in the car until next time it’s needed!

Tri-Fold or Multifold

Tri-fold, or multifold ramps are designed to easily set up and break down for easy portability. They usually fold in half lengthwise, and in one or more places horizontally. The horizontal hinge allows them to fit better into a variety of locations.

Since they can fold up several ways, they tend to put an emphasis on portability for travel, sometimes (but not always) sacrificing weight capacity as a result.

Due to their compact nature, they are great for keeping in the trunk of a car for accessing external locations or to keep on hand in a closet to whip out for limited-mobility guests.

Modular Wheelchair Ramp Systems

Modular wheelchair ramp systems are composed of premade interchangeable pieces, so that the ramp can easily be placed and customized to a specific location.

They are generally designed to be used semi-permanently in one location, but then are easy to relocate when the person moves or they are no longer needed. Modular ramps can be a quick and inexpensive solution to a temporary need for a wheelchair ramp, such as when a senior is recovering from a surgery, or when a family member will be visiting for a while.

Threshold Ramps

Threshold ramps are generally less than 2 inches tall and are made specifically to bridge a small gap in height in an area such as a doorway, indoors or out. 

While an inch or two might not seem like much, it can be insurmountable for an individual in a wheelchair. These little portable ramps make a big difference.

Dual Track Ramps and Roll Ups

Dual track ramps are a pair of narrow ramps that can be placed far enough apart to accommodate various wheel widths. This cuts down on weight quite a bit, which lends itself well to portability and compact storage. 

These ramps usually telescope out or unroll to use, which can make them less stable than other types of ramps. It can also be difficult for a person in a wheelchair to use the track unassisted because placing the tracks the correct distance apart can be tricky. Many manufacturers recommend against self-navigating up or down track ramps because of these concerns. 

It is safe to push a wheelchair up or down a dual track ramp — and many caregivers actually prefer this style of ramp because the area between the ramps is convenient for walking.

Permanent Versus Temporary Wheelchair Ramps

Temporary, semi-permanent and permanent ramps are comparable in terms of security, as long as they are set up and used properly. The major differences between semi-permanent and permanent ramps boil down to attractiveness, convenience, cost and portability.

Building a permanent, long-lasting wheelchair ramp onto a home can be an attractive way to handle the need for a ramp, as the style can blend in seamlessly with the home. Threshold ramps won’t be noticeable from a distance, but a large ramp long enough to reach an entryway that is high off the ground, will affect a home’s curb appeal.  

Permanent wheelchair ramps generally involve building permits, and require the services of a contractor. If wood is used as the material, there will be considerable upkeep and maintenance to consider as well. 

On the other hand, portable handicap ramps are designed for quick set up and ease-of-use. Not all portable ramps are created equal. Some are created to be truly portable, with an emphasis on minimizing weight. They are designed to be compact and to set up and break down very easily, often featuring a handle for ease of transport. 

These ultra-light-weight ramps may not be large enough to access all areas, especially those that are higher off the ground, such as multiple-step stairs. Even lightweight ramps may be difficult for some seniors to place and pick up, if they have any disability or diminished strength. 

Other portable ramps are a bit heftier, and may be heavier. They are typically designed to withstand various elements and are intended to be left set up on a semi-permanent basis. They are much less expensive than permanent ramps, making them an attractive alternative to such an expensive construction project. 

Semi-permanent ramps don’t have to be adjusted often. They don’t require building permits, don’t damage property, and can be moved to a new location when needed. No wonder semi-permanent wheelchair ramps are so popular!

Slope and Height of Intended Incline

Ensuring a safe slope is very important. The higher the vertical rise, the longer the ramp will need to be for the elderly individual to navigate it safely.

If the slope is too steep, it can create dangerous situations. For example, a wheelchair heading down a slope that is too steep could easily gain too much speed and lose control. Pushing a wheelchair up a steep ramp is physically taxing. It also runs the risk of the wheelchair rolling backwards and toppling over. 

ADA standards vary based on whether the wheelchair will be occupied or unoccupied on the ramp.

Occupied Wheelchair

For an occupied wheelchair, the ADA recommends no more than a 2:12 slope, which means that for each 2 inches of vertical rise, at least 12 inches of ramp length is required. 

  • For example, a 6 inch rise would need a 36 inch ramp. (2×3=6 and 12×3=36)

Unoccupied Wheelchair

The ADA recommends a slope of 3:12 for unoccupied wheelchairs, with 12 inches of ramp length for each 3 inches of rise. 

  • For example, a 6 inch rise would need a 24 inch ramp. (3×2=6 and 12×2=24)

Ramp Size

Portable wheelchair ramps vary quite a bit in size. The smaller the ramp, generally the lighter and less expensive it will be. 

It’s important that the portable handicap ramp be long enough to provide a safe slope, or there will be a danger of losing control of the wheelchair, or having it overturn.  A safe slope is no less than 12 inches of length for each 2 inches of rise (or 12 inches of length for each 3 inches of rise, if the ramp will only ever be used by an unoccupied wheelchair). 

Generally speaking, one should choose the longest ramp that will fit in the space available, although factoring in portability is an important consideration as well. A longer wheelchair ramp will allow for a more gentle slope that is less intimidating for elderly seniors navigating it.

Ramp Width

Most portable wheelchair ramps are between 15-36 inches. Make sure to choose a mobility ramp that is wide enough to fit the user’s wheelchair comfortably. If it will be used in a vehicle or other tight location, ensure it’s narrow enough to fit safely.

Shape

Some wheelchair ramps are as simple as a solid slab of metal. These are usually used in doorways or for overcoming curbs or small bumps. Other ramps are larger, with multiple hinged pieces. The hinges allow the ramp to be angled over small sets of stairs, or other obstacles.

Weight Capacity

Never exceed the stated weight capacity for a wheelchair ramp. Be sure to factor in the total weight for everything that will be on the ramp at once, including, as applicable:

  • The chair itself
  • The person riding in it or driving it
  • The person pushing it

Ramp Weight

Ramp weight can vary tremendously depending on its material and design. For semi-permanent placement, weight may not be a deciding factor because once it is in place it won’t often be moved. 

If a senior will be transporting the ramp in and out of a vehicle, or setting it up and breaking it down frequently, look for a lightweight wheelchair ramp with compact design, and possibly a carrying handle.

Materials

Wood is a popular choice for permanent wheelchair ramps due to its aesthetic appeal, but it tends to be heavy and require a great deal of maintenance. It’s not well-suited for portable wheelchair ramps.

Aluminum is commonly used for portable lightweight wheelchair ramps because of its low cost, light weight and durability. Aluminum ramps are often constructed for easy set up, but they can be prone to denting. 

FIberglass is lightweight and favored by some who consider it more attractive than metal. It isn’t as available and it comes with a higher price tag. It may not always support as much weight as metal, but it tends to fare better in extreme climates. It doesn’t get as hot to the touch or as affected by icy conditions.

Galvanized Steel is heavy, so it’s not a frequent choice for portable ramps (although it’s not a bad option for more permanent mobility ramps). It’s generally coated to prevent corrosion, and it’s often made with plenty of holes or grates to allow water and snow to pass through, so it tends to do well in inclement weather — although maybe not so well with bare feet or high heeled shoes!

Rubber can be a great choice for ramps and is sometimes used in threshold and entry ramps. It can be a little on the heavy side, but it is quite durable, affordable and naturally very slip resistant.

Grip 

Textured grip surfaces on the top of the ramp can add traction and help prevent slipping and skidding. This is especially important during rainy or icy weather.

Alternatively, some seniors opt to bring portable ramps in out of the weather when not in use to keep them dry. Still, extra grip or traction is always a good feature to look for to add friction and a sense of security.

Handles 

Some ramps have handles to make carrying and moving the ramp easier. This isn’t essential – especially for semi-permanent ramps. But if you’ll be assembling and disassembling the wheelchair ramp while carting it off between various locations, then handles may be a huge benefit.

Transition Plates

Some ramps include hinged top plates to allow for an extra smooth transition from ramp to ground, or to help clear an obstacle like a vehicle’s bumper or sliding glass door tract. While they aren’t essential, they are a nice feature that makes the experience much smoother for the wheelchair user.

Lip or Rail

Some wheelchair ramps have a lip or rail along the sides, while others do not. This can enhance safety by preventing a wheel from accidentally leaving the ramp. On the other hand, these lips can sometimes interfere with a door swinging open, and can also add more overall weight to the ramp. 

Drainage Slots

Some ramps have drainage slots to prevent water from pooling, which is important if you plan on leaving it out semi-permanently, especially in wet or rainy environments.

Assembly and Installation

Some wheelchair ramps arrive assembled right out of the box, while others may require some assembly or installation. None of the portable ramps should require extremely complicated setup, but it is still important to consider the difficulty of assembly when making a selection.

Style or Color

Some seniors may appreciate particular ramp styles, colors or aesthetics, especially for a semi-permanent placement.

Portable Wheelchair Ramp FAQs

Does Medicare pay for handicap ramps?

Does Medicare pay for wheelchair ramps? Unfortunately, Medicare doesn’t cover wheelchair ramps under Part A or Part B. However, some Medicare Advantage plans may — talk to your insurance agent about your specific policy.

Are portable wheelchair ramps safe?

Portable wheelchair ramps are safe when used as specified by the manufacturer. They can be unsafe if used in unsuitable conditions. Suitable conditions can vary depending on factors including:

-Weight capacity
-Climate conditions
-Length of the ramp and total height of the steps or rise
-Where or how they are installed

For safety’s sake:

Never use a ramp that is too short for a particular location, or that has too steep of a slope.
Never exceed the weight capacity. Although the weight capacities can be quite generous for many ramps, consider the total weight of the occupied chair, along with any person who might be pushing it, if applicable. 
Ensure that traction tape, if used, and the ramp itself, is in good repair.

How wide should a wheelchair ramp be?

While the ADA has strict regulations for wheelchair ramp widths (and some states have regulations even stricter), the width of portable wheelchair ramps can vary quite a bit. Some, like dual track models, are very narrow, designed to be used in pairs. 

Most portable wheelchair ramps vary in width from about 15-36 inches. Be sure to choose a model wide enough to comfortably accommodate the wheelchair, and allow at least a couple of inches clearance on each side – especially if the senior will be navigating the ramp independently while sitting in the chair.

How long should a wheelchair ramp be for 3 steps?

The length of a wheelchair ramp should be determined by the total height of the steps. The ADA recommends the slope of the wheelchair ramp be no more steep than 2:12, or 12 inches long for each 2 inches high.  If your steps are at the standard height of 7.5 inches, you will need at least 135 inches (11.25 feet) of ramp length.

How much does a portable wheelchair ramp cost (generally)?

The cost of a portable wheelchair ramp will vary based on size, material and other factors. Small inexpensive ramps can start under $50, while larger, longer wheelchair ramps will cost several hundred dollars.

Can you rent a wheelchair ramp?

Portable wheelchair ramps are available to rent in some locations. For individuals who need a ramp for only a very limited time, this could be an economical option. Some portable wheelchair ramps are inexpensive to buy, so be sure to investigate options and consider all the factors. Will it likely be needed again in the future? Is there a place to store it in the meantime? 

A Recap Of Our Favorites!

Today’s top overall pick for best portable wheelchair ramps – the Rose Home Fashion Extra Wide Wheelchair Ramp – also takes the “Best Budget Ramp” category!

Rose Home Fashion’s Ramp is easily portable at a mere 13 pounds, and features a built-in carrying handle for convenience. It is designed to overcome a curb or single step, and is well suited to both temporary and semi-permanent placement. This little ramp supports a generous 800 pound capacity, and can safely be used with motorized scooters and folding mobility scooters. Overall, it offers an excellent selection of features at a budget-friendly price.

Best Threshold Ramp

Today’s top threshold ramp is the SafePath EZEdge Threshold Ramp. Available in a variety of heights (up to 2 inches) this EZEdge ramp can be cut at home, if desired, to completely customize the fit for a particular door jamb or threshold.

Exceptionally slip-resistant, this rubber ramp has no weight capacity limit. It’s well suited to long-term use outdoors, indoors – even for easier shower access! 


Thanks for reading about the best portable wheelchair ramps for the elderly. Please share your thoughts and experiences about this topic in the comments below!

Last update on 2022-01-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

0 thoughts on “Best Portable Wheelchair Ramps: Helping the Elderly Get Around!”

  1. My mother started relying on a walker or wheelchair to get last year but a few months ago a friend of mine recommended Adapta, they recommended Suitcase ramps that can be folded for easy transport and storage

    Reply
  2. Thanks for your insight.
    With all the ramps you have written, which one would you say is the lightest and can hold the most amount of weight?

    Reply
    • Hey Ron, usually the lighter a ramp is, the less weight it can hold. So I’d think about which of those factors is more essential. Each product reviewed includes the ramp’s weight and weight capacity.

      Reply

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