Answer
a
Work Step by Step
A descending elevator coming to a halt has a downwards velocity that is getting smaller, meaning an acceleration upwards.
Comparing this to not accelerating, the force of gravity is $mg$ between the person and the floor of the elevator.
Accelerating upwards, the elevator not only has to match the force of gravity $mg$, but also apply more force to accelerate upwards $ma$, meaning to total force is $m(g+a)$ which is greater than mg.
