Sometimes financial things can get confused ….Maybe it might have been better to line up the work for when she was around….less stressful too having someone else around…I always ask for a written bill and description of work done…and try to pay by chk. And write down the chk number and date on my copy of the bill…signed and dated..Maybe someone you trust like from your church or your bank could help. For work around the house I ask my son or a knowledgeable friend to vet what is going to be done and whether the price quoted is reasonable and only pay once the work is completed. If the worker complains about this I plead “old age” and ask them to come back later when my son is around and offer them a coffee. The main thing is not to be rushed or pressured into anything. I hope this is helpful. Every situation is different. Take care and be well