BB: the minimum wage for most of us (federal, NY, NJ) is $7.25. If that were the prevailing wage for cleaning help, maybe I’d actually afford it. In my neighborhood it starts at 10. And off the books equals tax free (not even Fica). I don’t think home attendants make more, and they must go for training and have taxes deducted. Also, usually the employer provides lunch, dinner or both.
It’s definitely hard work, but don’t claim they are being mistreated. Most aren’t, or they simply “fire” their bosses (no resumes or even references to worry about)…