Ann Richards, a resident at Covenant Place since 2008, began receiving weekly housekeeping services nine months ago.

Commenting on her decision to request housekeeping services, Ann explains, “I didn’t want to do it anymore. I thought, ‘Here I am 97 years old and I think it’s time I have some help. In fact, I think I deserve it!’” She added, “I get too tired and it’s too hard for me to take care of the house—I have aches and I’ve fallen a lot, making things like vacuuming very difficult.”

Ann further commented on how the housekeeping program has allowed her to reduce dependence on family members and, thus, maintain her independence, stating, “I used to do it for my family as they got older but times have changed—women have gone to work.”

Ann also pointed out that the energy she conserves by having the housekeeping service allows her to enjoy a daily routine of Tai Chi and dancing, helping her maintain a healthy mind and body. Further, the program has impacted socialization opportunities, as, per Ann, the time and energy she used to spend cleaning is now spent going to lunch and enjoying other activities with family and friends.

Finally, Ann exclaimed, “If I didn’t have Diamond—who’s so good and so considerate—I wouldn’t be as happy because I’m not as agile as I used to be and, quite honestly, I hate cleaning!”

Sam March
Author: Sam March