Care and support logistics
Write a practical handoff for a household helper
A new helper needs to know what the person wants done, how and when, and what they do not want touched. Write these as the person's choices in their own terms. Name one contact for questions so the helper does not have to guess.
A text to start with
[Person] has asked [helper] to help with [tasks]. In their own words, they want it done like this: [preferences]. Timing they chose: [times]. Things they do not want done or moved: [limits]. For questions, the helper should contact [name and method]. Write a one-page handoff that states these as the person's choices. Do not add routines, advice or instructions I did not give.
Example request. Change the details to fit your situation.Household helper handoff
Person and helper: [ ] Handoff approved by the person on: [ ] Requested task: [ ] Preferred method, in the person's words: [ ] Timing the person chose: [ ] Limit or thing not to touch: [ ] Contact for questions, name and method: [ ] Decisions still open and who to ask: [ ] Communication preference (call, text, note on the counter): [ ] Date to review this handoff: [ ] Repeat the item block as needed.
Keep the person's choices clear
A handoff can quietly turn a preference into a rule. If the person likes the kettle filled in the morning, write that as their preference, not as a health requirement. Check that nothing reads as medical guidance and that no line overrides a choice the person made, such as a room they want left alone. Look for routines the writer assumed would be helpful. Where the person was unsure, mark the item as undecided and name who the helper should ask.
Ask another agent to check the result
Read this handoff for any line that turns a preference into a medical instruction or overrides a choice the person made. Flag any routine that does not appear in the person's own wording. For each flag, suggest a plainer line that restores the person's choice, and list open questions for the named contact.
Walk through it with the person
Read the handoff aloud with the person and change anything that does not sound like them. Give the helper a copy and offer a short conversation before the first visit. Agree when to revisit the handoff, for example after the first week, and who updates it. The person's latest wording is the version that counts.