Design for Elderly and Disabled Environments: Making Homes More Comfortable and Accessible Stairs Part 8 of 10

Contents Common Barriers Remodeled Stairs Treads and Risers Railings Drop-Offs Additional Changes Replacing Stairs

Common Barriers Handrail is mounted too high for many users. Stairs lack handrails with horizontal extension at both ends of the railing. Unprotected drop-off Slick tread coverings, surfaces, or finishes offer poor traction.

Common Barriers Handrail design is difficult to grip. Handrail is too far from the wall, leaving space to wedge an arm during a fall. Stairway is poorly lighted.

Remodeled Stairs Handrails are shaped to provide a continuous, easily gripped surface. Light fixtures in dark stairways improve safety and usability. A handrail extension can turn a corner at the top of the stairs.

Treads and Risers Select stair coverings and finishes that offer good traction Contrasting colors may help distinguish between riser and tread Rounded nosings may be used instead of square, sharper ones

Treads and Risers Uniform size per stair, over the entire stairway Deeper treads offer more footing Older stairs tend to be too steep

Railings Mount handrails inches above floor surface Consider installing a lower handrail for children and smaller adults Place rails on both sides of the stairs

Railings Consider Round rails 1 1/4”- 2” in diameter Place 1 1/2” away from the wall Add level extensions at the end of landings for support

Drop-Offs Unprotected drop-offs are potential hazards Half-walls, balustrades or barriers are appropriate State and Local codes regulate these extensively

Summary Install temporary lifts Install abrasive strips Install wood bevels Paint Treads and Risers