Big congratulations to Harriet. As much for the perseverance as for the loss. That's the part that really impresses me.
My hesitation on a ladder is not because I can't do it, I am now mentally afraid. Since my couple falls recently and watching DH fall off ladder a few months ago, I'm hesitant of the ladder. Everything I do seems like I'm more cautious. I don't spill one drop of anything on the floor that I don't go back and wipe it up completely. And call out immediately to DH if I see wet anywhere. Step cautiously over any bump or riser. Honestly, I'm getting to be like an old person.
DH can get up the ladder one step with each foot, but getting the ac filters out was mostly impossible, holding his arms up over his head (he can't do that any more). Our ceilings are 9'. When he brought the filters home and I installed with him holding the ladder, I remarked that I needed assisted living!