Sounds like someone has Elevatophobia Elevatophobia is the fear of elevators. The most common trigger of phobia is getting stuck in an elevator for a long time due to a power outage. Here's are some helpful hints if you get stuck in a lift: https://www.wikihow.com/Survive-Being-Stuck-in-a-Lift If that doesn't help I suggest a little candy dish full of Zanax or a little cup of cyanide in case the Zanax runs out. Best of luck. LOL
As we age and because of potential illnesses and injuries, if you build or rent a two story house, you might consider a master bedroom on the ground floor.
