What once began as a gerontology master’s project soon became a time-saving solution for homeowners across the country. In 2000, Spectrum founder and physical therapist Jenny Nelson became alarmed by the number of senior citizens she met with injuries caused by doing work around their homes. While pursuing her degree in gerontology, she made it her master’s project to found a care company that assisted seniors living on their own with tasks that weren’t simply health related. Soon thereafter, Spectrum Home Services was born and became Nelson’s life’s work.

By 2008, when Hal and Jeanette Fairless opened the Pacific Northwest franchise, Spectrum had grown to serve everyone, regardless of age or presence of free cake in the home. Spectrum’s original focus is still seen in its handyman services, through which techs specialize in building wheelchair ramps, installing grab bars and lifts, and performing ADA bathroom modifications. Cleaning crews come out weekly, biweekly, monthly, or as needed to tidy up living spaces, and organization specialists help remove clutter from busy lives. For local moves or seniors transferring to an alternative living facility, Spectrum’s relocation team will plan the project from start to finish.