Carpeting with a tight loop, or a dense flat carpet, without any patterns, is the best choice. The color on the landings should be different from that on the stairs so that the person can see where the steps start and stop.

Install the carpet with either a thin pad (not foam) underneath or use no padding at all. Thick padding causes the toe to sink into the carpet, which can cause a fall. Talk to your installer about the safest installation method for your care receiver's staircase design. Regardless of the installation method (e.g., staples for wood, glue* for cement), make sure the carpet fits tightly, especially over the step's edge (called "nosing"). If the carpet isn't fastened securely, it can move under the person's foot. *If glue is used to fasten the carpet to the stairs, make sure there's plenty of ventilation, as the fumes can be quite strong. If the person has asthma or a breathing condition, check first with his/her doctor before using the glue.