Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question about senior home safety modifications? Find answers to the most common questions below. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us.
No question is too small — though we're still waiting for the stairs to explain themselves.
What is a home accessibility assessment and do I need one?
A home accessibility assessment is a professional room-by-room evaluation of your home's safety features and potential hazards. A trained specialist inspects bathrooms, stairs, doorways, flooring, lighting, and outdoor access, then provides a prioritized report of recommended modifications. If you or a loved one is over 65, has mobility challenges, or is planning to age in place, an assessment is the smart first step. Ramps for Gramps offers free estimates — in person or by phone — with zero obligation throughout Kearney, the Kansas City Northland, and the greater Kansas City metro.
How do I get a quote for a walk-in shower conversion?
Every bathroom is different, so every quote is tailored to your home. The final scope depends on the size of the shower, the materials you choose, and the complexity of the plumbing work. Call Ramps for Gramps at (816) 916-0397 or request a quote online — we provide free, no-obligation quotes for all shower conversions, in person or by phone.
Does Medicare cover home modifications for seniors?
Traditional Medicare (Parts A and B) generally does not cover home modifications such as grab bars, ramps, or shower conversions. However, Missouri's Medicaid Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waiver program may cover some modifications for qualifying individuals. Additionally, Medicare Advantage plans sometimes include home safety benefits. Veterans may qualify for the VA's Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) or Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) grants, which can help fund modifications.
What is the best type of grab bar for a shower?
The best grab bar for a shower is a stainless steel bar with a textured or knurled grip surface, mounted directly into wall studs or structural blocking. For shower areas, we recommend a combination of a 24" horizontal bar at standing height and a vertical bar at the shower entrance. ADA standards require grab bars to withstand 250 pounds of force. Avoid suction-cup grab bars, which can fail without warning — always use permanently mounted bars.
How long does it take to build a wheelchair ramp?
A standard residential wheelchair ramp typically takes 2 to 5 days to build, depending on length and complexity. A simple threshold ramp can be installed in under a day. A longer ramp (20+ feet) with switchbacks and landings may take up to a week. Ramps for Gramps handles all planning, permits (when required), and construction. We aim to minimize disruption to your daily routine.
What is the ADA slope requirement for a wheelchair ramp?
The ADA requires a maximum slope of 1:12 for wheelchair ramps, meaning one inch of ramp rise for every 12 inches (one foot) of ramp length. For example, if your entrance is 24 inches above ground level, you'll need at least 24 feet of ramp length. Ramps must also have 36" minimum width between handrails, handrails on both sides at 34–38" height, and level landings at the top and bottom measuring at least 5' × 5'.
Can I widen a doorway in a load-bearing wall?
Yes, doorways in load-bearing walls can be widened, but it requires additional structural work. A new header beam must be installed above the wider opening to carry the load that the removed wall section was supporting. This adds some extra work compared to a non-load-bearing wall, and we include it in your free quote. Ramps for Gramps always assesses wall structure before beginning work and handles all necessary engineering to ensure your home's structural integrity.
What are the most important home modifications for aging in place?
The five most impactful aging-in-place modifications are: (1) grab bars in bathrooms — the most cost-effective fall prevention measure; (2) walk-in shower conversion — eliminates the dangerous bathtub step-over; (3) non-slip flooring — especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways; (4) improved lighting — particularly on stairs and in hallways; (5) ramp or zero-step entry — ensures you can always get in and out of your home safely. A professional assessment can prioritize these based on your specific situation.
What areas do you serve?
Ramps for Gramps is based in Kearney, MO and serves the Kansas City Northland and the greater Kansas City metro, including Kearney, Smithville, Lawson, Excelsior Springs, Liberty, Gladstone, North Kansas City, Pleasant Valley, Riverside, Parkville, Weatherby Lake, Houston Lake, Oak Park, Tracy, Kansas City, Independence, Blue Springs, Lee's Summit, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Mission Hills, Shawnee, and Leavenworth. Not sure if you're in our area? Call (816) 916-0397 and we'll let you know.
What are your hours, and are estimates really free?
Our office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 6:00pm. We are closed Saturday and Sunday. Estimates are always free, and you can choose an in-person visit to your home or a quick estimate by phone. Call (816) 916-0397 or use our contact form to get started.
Are your modifications up to ADA code?
All Ramps for Gramps modifications are built to meet or exceed ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility guidelines. This includes proper grab bar mounting standards (250+ lb. load rating), wheelchair ramp slope ratios (1:12), doorway clear widths (minimum 32", preferred 36"), and shower accessibility dimensions. While residential homes aren't legally required to meet ADA standards, building to ADA specifications ensures the highest level of safety and functionality.
How do I pay for home modifications if I can't afford them?
Several options can help fund home modifications in Missouri: (1) Missouri Medicaid HCBS waiver — may cover modifications for qualifying individuals; (2) VA grants (SAH/SHA) — for qualifying veterans; (3) USDA Rural Development loans — for rural homeowners; (4) Area Agency on Aging — may have grant programs; (5) Home equity or personal loans — many banks offer home improvement financing. Ramps for Gramps helps identify potential funding sources during our free assessment.
What makes Ramps for Gramps different from other contractors?
Ramps for Gramps specializes exclusively in senior home safety and aging-in-place modifications — it's all we do. Unlike general contractors who dabble in accessibility work, our team is trained specifically in ADA standards, fall prevention strategies, and the unique needs of older adults. We're locally owned and operated in Kearney, MO, with over 20 years of carpentry experience. Every project starts with a free assessment, and we never use high-pressure sales tactics.
How can I prevent falls at home for my elderly parent?
To reduce fall risk at home: (1) Install grab bars in all bathrooms; (2) Improve lighting, especially on stairs and in hallways; (3) Remove loose rugs and clutter from walkways; (4) Add non-slip treatments to smooth floors; (5) Ensure handrails are on both sides of all staircases; (6) Consider a walk-in shower to eliminate tub climbing; (7) Widen doorways if mobility devices are used. The CDC reports that 3 million seniors visit emergency rooms for fall injuries each year. A free home assessment from Ramps for Gramps identifies your specific risks and solutions.
Ready to Make Your Home Safer?
Those stairs have had the upper hand long enough. Let's take it back.
Get a free, no-obligation quote and in-home safety assessment. We'll identify risks and provide honest recommendations.