What if you go with a 24" model such as the Electrolux that is only 25" Deep? It's around 69" high stacked and might be easier to reach the controls.

I cannot speak to the newer models, which I believe have changed somewhat, but I have the 2015 version of the SQ stack. I purchased it because of the shallow depth, and love it. But at 5’4”, I still have to get on a very secure one-step stool to truly SEE into the drum. I don’t mind, and 60 is around the corner, If if I did mind, I’d have to occasionally pull things from the rear of the drum with some giant barbecue tongs or something. Your options are limited, and Cal is right to suggest a 24” set, but you will give up a lot of capacity compared to the SQ. I am currently looking at a Bosch set for master closet renovation, but I have no intention of completely giving up my SQ. Good luck.

Here is my stool, which I leave in front of the machine The washer door just neatly clears it. https://smile.amazon.com/Rubbermaid-Stool-Small-White-FG420087WHT/dp/B0063KBQEA

Don't worry about the long term solution since the short term solution is less expensive. You can always modify the space when the appliances die, which, given current manufacturing, is less time than you think. You will age better than the appliances. You will probably be buying new appliances before you reach your aged in place time of life. Go for what you want now. However, a fall at any age can incapacitate a person and prematurely require disability accommodations. I recommend a stool with a handle for safety for people regardless of age.

As a fellow short person I would use the space as designed for a side by side washer and dryer. Have you checked the feasibility of placing a freezer in the space? Freezers need air space in order to work efficiently. Plus upright freezers regardless of how small still need door swing space next to the wall and other objects.

You need to shop the freezer along with the washer/dryer. Then you have to check installation specs carefully on all before you buy. Unit size is important but installation requirements are more so. It may be another tangent you don't want to pursue but giving the limited space you have to work with planning ahead and getting the details down will save you a lot of potential grief in the future

As much as I hate to add unneeded technology into appliances, like bluetooth coffee makers and cameras in the fridge, in your case, you might want to look at a washer/dryer with app integration and controls. I saw an LG model with it but I'm sure others have, or are rolling out integrated app controls. So if reaching the control panel is a usability concern, you can just dial the washer settings and go right from your phone or tablet. Well, in theory.

They make all in one, washer and dryer units. Have you looked into buying one of those? Then you wouldn't have to worry about stacking a washer and a dryer. Here is an LG washer / dryer combo at Home Depot that gets pretty good reviews.

Any of the major brands that are front loaders will have stacking kits. I had the Samsung pair stacked and I’m 5’2” and I had to use a step stool to reach the controls. I don’t think that’s a good situation regardless of age. I have the compact Bosch 800 series downstairs and consumer reports listed that model as the top. I think they clean and dry beautifully. Mine are under counter, but they certainly do stack. That might be an option for you.

thank you to all! We have gotten some suggestions from local appliance specialists, and our contractor told us that he could make modifications to fit what is needed for the dryer (which seems to be the issue). I like the concept of a dryer with an app so I wouldn't have to climb up on a stool . . . . .

We were similarly challenged in our laundry room and ended up purchasing two different 24" models - (WED7500VW - Whirlpool 3.8 cu. ft. Electric Dryer - and EFLS210TIW Electrolux IQ Touch 24 in. W 2.4 cu. ft. High Efficiency Front Load Washer). We built a wooden shelf to stack them, and it works beautifully. I must say that I had very low expectations when I purchased these two appliances, and was really only getting something to fit the small space. I can now say that we hit the proverbial jackpot with this set. Some have found the dryer's signal annoying but we just keep the laundry room door closed. Truly happy.

Agreed- today’s. Impact laundry is much better performing than the older models.

Just an fyi for anyone that finds this thread that the Kenmore flip control dryer (made by LG) is erroneously listed at 29.75 inches deep on the Kenmore site. This is not correct. It is shown as 32.1 inch deep in the manual and I measured it myself at sears and it is just under 32 inches. So the manual is right but the kenmore website is incorrect. I had very tight fit in my closet and was glad i checked multiple sources before i bought it.