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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.

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Solutions

Place tables nearby to store items away from the stairs or landing.

Repair any loose carpeting on stairs.

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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.

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