How can I redo a staircase to make it safer for seniors?
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Hi Judy,
This is a big problem for seniors, you may have to rebuild them to make them safer. Here is a link on what a couple did:
https://www.proremodeler.com/lesson-universal-design-how-make-stairs-safer-all
Maybe have two railings? Be careful carrying things up and down.
Are they wood stairs? You can get non-slip stair treads to apply.
You can paint with non slip paint. It has a grit in it similar to sand. We did that on the indoor ramp for my MIL.
If the steps are too high/steep, and you can afford it, have them re-done to reduce the riser height/angle.
Thicker rugs (but not shag) will help cushion falls. Dual handrails at a comfortable height will help. They should be rounded, to facilitate a tighter grip, and of wood, rather than metal, well secured to the wall at at least 3 points.
Adequate lighting is a must, but avoid harsh glare from walls. The stairwell should be sufficiently lighted at all points.
If you have very wide srairs, you can research a chair that glides up the staircase, via electric or battery supply.