Best option to continue linear progression on squats

[BarryF]

I feel like I am getting close to stalling on squats and, as on older lifter, just wondering which option would be recommended or most likely the most effective.

I am in my 16th week of strength training, age 43, starting weight 156, currently 179. I have progressed from 70 lbs to 280 lbs 3x5 without a stall or deload. I am wondering about the following 3 options when I stall:

1) Try the same weight again for the next two workouts, and add weight if I make the reps, if not deload and move back up(the program)

2) Deload right away and move back up due to age to immediately get some recovery.

3) Make Wednesday a light day with front squats as soon as I stall to add in extra recovery, and add weight every Monday and Friday to the LBBS.

I know #1 is "the program", was just wondering if you would offer any different advice for a slightly older lifter. My goal is, of course, to progress in weight in the fastest and most efficient manner. Thanks.

[Andy Baker (KSC)]

Try 3, but just do light back squats, not front squats

[BarryF]

Is this because this option might prolong linear progression due to age/recovery? I accidentally repeated 280 for my first two work sets today. It felt a little bit easier than wednesday, but when I went up to 285 for the third set, I barely, barely got all 5 reps. Likely would not have made 3x5. Little bit of lingering soreness in the glutes. I will try to remember to update with progress when I get to that point.

What percent of working weight would you suggest?

[Andy Baker (KSC)]

Start with about a 10% offload.