Whether your home has multiple flights of stairs or just a few steps, there are simple and inexpensive ways to ensure that stairs are safe and supportive. Scroll down to learn about common problems and their solutions.
Click the arrows below to learn about common problems related to safe and supportive aging in the kitchen, and solutions that can address them. Explore the Solutions Gallery to view photos from actual homes that demonstrate how design and product changes can support independent living.
Please note: the photographs on this website represent possible solutions to various challenges and should not be taken without consideration of individuals’ specific needs and environments. Obtaining professional advice and/or assessment is strongly recommended before making changes to the home.
Solutions
Add additional handrail for support on both sides of stairs, with railing extending past the last step.
Add non-slip flooring or anti-skid strips on stair edges.
Solution gallery: Stairs
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Stair Handrails
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Anti-skid Strips
Solutions
Place tables nearby to store items away from the stairs or landing.
Repair any loose carpeting on stairs.
Solution gallery: Stairs
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Carpet on Stairs
Solutions
Add additional lighting to see steps more easily at top and bottom of the stairwell.
Add a light switch at the top and bottom of the stairs to light your way going up and down.
Add a color/contrasting strip to the steps to identify change of levels.
Solution gallery: Stairs
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Light Switch at Top of Stairs
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Light Switch at Bottom of Stairs
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Contrasting Color Strip
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