British houses don’t often have basements, but they do have useable attics. When I was a little girl we visited my grandmother’s house and her bungalow had a sort of second floor, but no staircase. Instead, when my Dad & Uncle Ian wanted to go to bed as little boys, they opened a door in the ceiling and pulled down a hinged angle ladder. This absolutely fascinated my sisters and me.
My little house here in Kirkwall has the same thing – there is a latched door in the ceiling, leading to heaven knows what (some nights I sleep better than others). The loft in the photo is at my uncle’s house – it’s full of old toys and appliances and furniture, as well things that my uncle still uses periodically (Scout’s travel crate is up there too). Uncle Ian will be 90 next month, and he pops up to the loft probably at least once a month. I was there watching him one day – my heart was in my mouth. But no, it seems it’s no problem for him – on and off the ladder without a thought.
Carry on and stay calm.