ASCENDING AND DESCENDING STAIRS
How to assist if stairs are difficult to maneuver
BY:KRISTIN SCHWEIZER, MPT
This is how your loved one should proceed and how you can help:
Up the Stairs
To begin, your loved one should place a hand on the handrail—if one is available. If he is accustomed to using a cane or crutch, he should place it in his free hand.
Next, he will step up with the stronger or less painful leg and then bring the weaker or more painful leg to meet it. If both legs are equally strong, he can bring the second leg on up to the next step. Proceed this way the entire length of the staircase, always going slowly. Stop to rest as needed. Note to the caregiver: You should be standing behind the person with your hands on his hips, moving along up the stairs behind him with your feet on different steps to maintain balance. If he loses his balance, you should gently, but firmly, push him forward toward the steps. Stand steadily behind him and help him get his footing before continuing.
Down the Stairs
Note that when descending, you will be guiding while going backwards. Proceed with care.
The person should place a hand on the handrail if one is available. If he is using a cane or crutch, he should hold it in his free hand. To begin, he should step down with the weaker or more painful leg and then bring the stronger or less painful leg to meet it. If both legs are equally strong, he can move the second leg down to the next step.
Note to the caregiver: You should stand in front of the person and place your hands on his hips, therefore descending the stairs backwards, feet on different steps to maintain your balance as you go. If the person loses his balance, push him gently and firmly backwards toward the steps, then sit together for a minute or two so that you will both be steady when you resume your descent.
Go slowly and rest as needed.