For the first question, the standard AYLOR applies 🙂 I would imagine that, given the need, you may be able to ask a non-Jew for assistance, but that’s not a question for me to answer.
For the second question, one helpful thing may be to make an Erev Shabbos checklist, and review it every week before heading off to shul or lighting candles. Put all of those easy-to-forget-in-the-rush items on the list, e.g., stuff you need out of the car, turn ringers off on phones, turn off fridge light, set up blech, turn off the oven, etc.