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Step 1
Determine where your ramps will be located. Given the height of the entryways and steps that need to be accommodated, it may be more feasible from a financial and practical standpoint to choose one doorway over another. In general, lower steps and entryways will be easier to build ramps for, and, not surprisingly, easier for the elderly wheelchair user to navigate.
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Step 2
Sketch out your design. The slope of the ramp will have a major impact on how well the elderly user can use it. Generally, building codes call for a 12:1 slope on a wheelchair ramp. In other words, the ramp must have 12 inches of length for every inch it needs to rise. This slope may be too extreme for a weaker user. In general, go with a gentler slope of 18:1 or even 24:1. While the ramp will be longer, it will be much easier to navigate.
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Step 3
Incorporate landings into longer ramps. If the ramp is long, a landing, or level area, will provide the user a spot where she can rest momentarily before continuing up the ramp. If the ramp has changes in direction, a landing also provides a spot where the wheelchair can be turned safely.
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Step 4
Add a handrail onto the ramp. The handrail will not only ensure safety by keeping the wheelchair on the ramp safely, but will provide an extra opportunity to hang on or pull the wheelchair along in the event of difficulties. It's a necessary addition for the safety of the user.
