I too have wondered about this (as I'm a planner, DH thinks its annoying but I like to be prepared as much as possible ahead of time).

I guess it isnt a bad idea to hire someone for the days I have Dr appointments if I can't schedule them at a good time. So that's not "SO" bad 1-2 a month until the last month where it's 1 a week (if all goes smoothly). so 12-15 appointments at a rate of $10/hr....I think that's the 'going rate' for a max of 4hrs is aprox $600 to pay someone. I'd ofcourse have all the parents meet the helper before and agree to this plan

**** This is my "worse case scenario". My parents are selling their house, on the market today! and are moving closer YAY!! because 25min is TOO far with this move parents will be mortgage free and mom would retire...wooo hooo!!! There is my "helper" LOL