How to Hire Help: “Staff Up!”

Written by Janet Helm, Realtor® and Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) 

A Home with HELM e-newsletter subscriber and longtime community advocate recently made me smile when she shared that her 82-year-old sister calls hiring help around the home “staffing up.”

I meet many people who want to age in place and doing so successfully almost always means having some level of support. That usually begins with asking for help, something that can feel bigger than it sounds. No one wants to admit they need help. For some, it may feel like admitting they are not capable. There can be a fear of how neighbours, family or friends might perceive it. The common refrain is “I’m fine” or “I’ll ask when I need it.” Unfortunately, by the time help is finally requested, it is often during a crisis.

So how do you hire help wisely, safely and with confidence?

1. Start early

Don’t wait for an emergency. Bringing in support while things are going smoothly helps you build trust and find the right fit before it becomes a necessity.

2. Do your homework

Referrals are valuable, yet it’s important to vet them yourself. Ask questions like: What did they do particularly well? Were there any challenges along the way?

3. Ask for written estimates

Always get quotes in writing. Compare not only the price but also what is included. Does the service provider have insurance, training and references?

4. Be cautious with “too good to be true” offers

You often get what you pay for. If a company pressures you to “today only price,” that is a red flag. Quality help is worth the time and proper vetting.

5. Do not hire on impulse

Take some time to think about it. Ask for clarification on anything that feels unclear. Feeling comfortable and confident matters more than moving quickly. 

6. If the help is not working out, speak up right away

Let the person know immediately and explain why. Clear communication saves time, money and frustration for everyone involved. It is far better to adjust early than continue with a situation that is not a good fit.

Aging in place successfully takes planning, trust and teamwork. Whether you call it “staffing up” or simply building your support network, having the right people in your corner makes all the difference. If there is a type of service you are considering, let me know, I’m happy to share my resources with you.