Walking load should be judged by how it is distributed, not only by distance
Families often assume the shorter route must be easier. For seniors, however, a short route can still be harder if it compresses the main effort into one burst of lifting and balance change.
A gentler ramp often works better because it allows the effort to be split across smaller, slower segments.
The real risk often appears after the climb and on the way back down
Stairs can tighten the knees or breathing before the viewpoint moment is even over. That cost may only become fully visible while standing for photos or descending afterward.
That is why the better question is not only 'can they get up' but also 'can they still stand and return comfortably afterward'.
Short stairs make sense only under clearly favorable conditions
A ramp is not always better. If it is very long, sun-exposed or difficult to break up, while the stairs are brief, supported and stoppable, the stairs may win.
The useful test is which path leaves more room to slow down, pause or abandon halfway without a bigger penalty.
The safest viewpoint choice is the one that leaves room to turn back early
On family routes, flexibility often matters more than completeness.
If a path lets the senior traveller stop, sit or return early without ruining the group flow, it is usually the stronger choice.