Extremely high maintenance cat, not sure what to do about it - any suggestions?

I love my cat, but dealing with her is a nightmare. She needs constant attention from me. I have to let her in and out of the house over and over again, scratch her back when she eats and drinks, etc. This might not sound like a big deal, but my bedroom is in the basement; I have to keep running up and down the stairs to do what she wants me to do. Anytime I'm trying to get things done, she gets right up in my business and I can't concentrate. If I attempt to ignore her, she does this extremely loud, deep-throated meow and won't stop until I give in to her demands. I don't sleep well at night and am unable to get very many things accomplished.

Does anyone have any advice?