Ramp Need & Planning Tool
Review the entrance problem, compare possible routes, and organize the questions your family should consider before deciding whether a ramp — or another access solution — makes sense.
Does your family need a ramp — or a better entrance solution?
Use this Planner to organize what is difficult about the current entrance, compare alternate routes, and prepare better questions before talking with a professional.
About this Ramp Need & Planning Tool
Caregiver Compass™ Ramp Need & Planning Tool is an educational and organizational tool. It helps families identify entrance barriers, compare possible routes, and prepare questions. It does not design a ramp, prescribe dimensions, determine code or ADA compliance, evaluate structural conditions, issue permit guidance, or replace an individualized professional assessment.
National Institute on Aging home-safety guidance identifies ramps as one possible way to improve access when walkers or wheelchairs make entrances difficult. AARP HomeFit guidance also encourages considering a zero-step entrance or an alternate entrance such as a side, back, or garage door when appropriate.
- National Institute on Aging — Home Safety Tips for Older Adults
- National Institute on Aging — Home Safety Checklist
- AARP HomeFit — Entrances and Exits
Privacy: V1 stores answers only in JavaScript memory on the current page. No login, email, local storage, session storage, or database is used.
Last reviewed: October 25, 2026