Find Mom Help for Home Maintenance with 5 Easy Steps

Are you watching your calendar fill up with reminders to fix things around Mom's house? You're not alone. Many older adults cherish their independence and wish to stay in their homes for as long as they can. However, the reality is that as we age, the burden of home maintenance can become overwhelming. It often falls on family or friends to step in and lend a hand. If you find yourself in this position, don't fret! I've got a simple 5-step process to help you find the right help for home maintenance so you can ensure Mom's house stays in tip-top shape.

Step 1: Assess Current and Future Home Maintenance Needs

Before you dive into finding help, take a step back and assess what needs to be done. Walk through Mom's house and make a list of all the maintenance tasks, from the leaky faucet in the kitchen to the loose railing on the porch. Prioritize the list based on what needs immediate attention and what can wait with focus on safety. Keep in mind while some things may not be issues now, they may become issues in the future, such as a washing machine breaking, or burned out light bulbs. Also consider that some tasks may be possible to complete now, such as lawn care and basic cleaning, however may become too difficult in the future. Often having a decluttering plan will significantly help with ongoing maintenance. Assessing the current and future needs will give you a clear picture of the workload and help you communicate the needs to potential helpers.

Step 2: Research Local Service Providers

Now that you have a prioritized list of what needs to be done, it's time to look for local home maintenance services. Check out online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends, or even seek advice from local community centers. You may also choose to leverage our significant network of contractors and professionals to ensure you are getting trusted and vetted resources. Make sure to look for services that specialize in working with older adults or have experience in a wide range of home maintenance tasks.

Step 3: Determine a Budget

Home maintenance can be costly, so it's crucial to figure out a budget. Sit down with Mom and discuss what she feels comfortable spending on home repairs and upkeep. Once you have a budget in mind, you can filter through the services you've researched and find ones that fit within the financial plan.

Step 4: Schedule Consultations

With your shortlist of services, start scheduling consultations. This is the time to ask questions, get quotes, and feel out which service providers are the right fit. Remember, it's not just about the cost; it's also about finding someone who is trustworthy and respectful of mom's home and her independence.

Step 5: Establish a Regular Maintenance Routine

After you've selected service providers, work with them to establish a routine maintenance schedule. Regular check-ups can prevent small issues from turning into big, costly ones down the line. Plus, having a routine gives mom (and you) peace of mind knowing that her home maintenance is under control.

Conclusion

Finding help for home maintenance isn't just about fixing things—it's about supporting Mom's desire to live independently and safely at home. By following these 5 easy steps, you can take away the family's stress and burden of home repairs, while ensuring that Mom's house remains a safe and comfortable haven for her for years to come.