Outside steps
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Hello,
I have several steps outside that I am not able to walk up and down. They are very steep and there is not much room at the bottom of them where the front door is. I was wondering if there is anything available to make getting up and down them easier? I am stuck in my house otherwise.
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Outside steps reply
Hello,
Thank you for your query. Outside steps can be very tricky to negotiate, there are added factors that make them much more difficult than inside, such as the weather conditions, the material they are made from, the position as to whether rails can be fitted. It is difficult to answer your question exactly without knowing more about your personal situation. I will answer it generally and if you have further questions, please feel free to write back again.
If you are able to walk and just feel the steps are difficult as there is no support, you could look at fitting rails on either one or both sides. Having something to hold onto often can make a person feel much more secure and supported. Some people prefer to then walk down backwards holding the rails, and not looking down makes it easier.
If you are not able to manage the steps at all or can't walk at all, the first option would to be consider ramping. It sounds as if this may not be possible in your situation but an OT would be able to look at is and assess this. The ramp has to meet certain gradient requirements so that it is not too steep. If you have several steps and not much space, this is not an option.
An external stair lift may be an option. Again an OT would be able to assist with determining if this is the best option.
A platform lift could possibly be fitted if you are a wheelchair user and cannot transfer. Again an OT and surveyors would need to look at this.
If these options are not viable, then there is a stair climber. This is a piece of equipment that your wheelchair is attached too, and it takes you up the stairs. It does need another person to operate it. Please see the article, Stair Climber, on the front page for more details.
A lot of these options are quite costly, you can contact your local authority OT department to request an assessment. If they feel you meet the criteria, they will make recommendations and help you through the process. Please see article on funding adaptations to your home for further information.
If you prefer to go privately, you can contact a private OT who will provide an assessment and make recommendations to best meet your need. Please feel free to contact us if you wish to have a private assessment.
I hope this information is useful to you.
Sarah, Ask an OT