Overview
- Specialists highlight that impaired depth perception and visuospatial skills can make stair navigation hard and may appear before obvious memory problems.
- Alzheimer Scotland notes movement changes such as shuffling and a rise in slips, trips and falls as dementia affects how people move through spaces.
- Guidance advises arranging a GP appointment if stair difficulties occur alongside other dementia indicators, with potential referral to a physiotherapist.
- The Alzheimer’s Society recommends safer stair setups including sturdy bannisters, clearly marked step edges or nosing, easy‑grip handrails, replacing worn carpets and keeping stairs free of clutter.
- Renters may need landlord approval for adjustments, and twice‑weekly strength and balance exercises are recommended to help reduce fall risk.