Most seniors want to age in their own homes, but many will need a little help doing so. That help might be as simple as installing a few grab bars around the house or signing up for a meal prep service. For some, help might come in the form of hiring a housekeeping or cleaning service.
Is your senior loved one struggling to keep a tidy home? Are they unable to clean as thoroughly as they once could? If you’re thinking about hiring a housekeeping or cleaning service for your aging family member, then consider these 8 tips for hiring the best!
Do you have a friend or other family member who has used cleaning services in the past? Ask them about it! Find out the name of the company and what they liked (or didn’t like). If they were happy with their service, then chances are they’ll have a business card to share with you as well!
Even though many housekeeping and cleaning services get most of their business by word of mouth, it’s still best to conduct a bit of your own research. Check out the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau. How many stars do reviewers give them on websites like Google or Yelp? Beware of businesses with lots of user complaints!
You have the right to interview anyone who is doing work inside your home (or your senior loved one’s home). Especially if the person you are looking to hire is an independent contractor, and not with an agency. Make sure your interview is thorough. Ask questions about what they do and don’t do. Be clear on your expectations as well as any boundaries. And, don’t forget to ask for references!
Professionals working with housekeeping or cleaning services are people. And, people sometimes make mistakes. It’s OK! But, what are their policies for making things right? Ask about satisfaction guarantees ahead of time so you know what to expect in the event that something doesn’t go quite as planned.
Before hiring a service or signing any contracts, know the terms of service. In other words, what is the company policy for canceling or changing your services? Many businesses have cancelation fees or require a certain amount of notice beforehand. It’s best to know the policies so you’re not surprised later!
Setting expectations is important, especially when it comes to your home. With the plethora of cleaning companies out there, there’s a pretty good chance you can find one that meets your needs exactly. But before you go searching, decide what exactly you’re looking for. Do you want weekly cleanings? Are you interested in a whole cleaning crew, or a solo housekeeper? Answering those questions, among others, will make your search less time-consuming!
Nothing in life is one size fits all, and that goes for prices, too! When choosing cleaning services, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck. Don’t be afraid to research every company and compare prices. Some companies will even offer discounts for repeat cleanings, while others boast loyalty reward programs!
Planning ahead is never a bad thing! Evaluate your home and everything that needs to be done to make it the best version of itself. Cross-reference your cleaning wish list with services offered at each company you research. Not only will this promote clear communication between you and your cleaner, but it might make the task of picking your cleaning company even simpler. Talk about two birds with one stone!
You’re ready to begin searching for the best housekeeping or cleaning services! Don’t forget to follow our 8 simple tips when conducting your search!
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Senior Resource exists to provide aging adults, retirees, and caregivers with applicable, and educational content. We address topics like senior housing, nursing care, and aging in place.
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Originally published December 08, 2022
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