Those are indeed scary. Here's an article about making steep stairs safe--not encouraging information. https://homeguides.sfgate.com/make-steep-interior-stairs-bigger-96844.html

In the meantime, think about treads. Never wear socks, backless shoes, or high heeled shoes on those. I hope your laundry isn't down there, but if it is throw down laundry before descending.

Unfortunately our laundry is down there, and we are finishing our basement for additional living area

Your winders don't meet modern code and if you alter them, you'll have to meet modern code and the only way that's happening is if you can come up with more run and the only way you're getting more run is with some very serious framing alterations and floor space sacrifice.

I'd stick some non-slip strips at the ends of the treads and call 'em good.