Abstract:

In Great Britain, many elderly people are housebound because of their handicap. About 1 percent of the population uses a wheelchair. Other disabled people often have difficulty travelling or entering other buildings. For many disabled people, ramps and rails are the keys to accessibility. Ramps may be portable or fixed and can be constructed of various materials. The surface should be non-slip and the grade of the ramp should not exceed 5 degrees. Portable ramps are useful for active disabled people; folding ramps may also be used to swing across or down when needed. Ramps for entering vehicles are available, along with short rise lifts. Another aid to mobility is the installation of household rails. Handrails on staircases should be continuous and extend beyond the top and bottom of the stair, and door handles are preferable to door knobs. Rails placed in bathrooms should be horizontal and parallel to the side of the toilet. There is funding available for ramps and rails, depending on the ownership of the property involved.