i am a professional liv in helper.. hint: nobody who is looking for a live in helper will hire a couple who offer to be 'live in helpers' because they are low income. it is not as easy as you imagine, but very stressful and ruins your life and most people can't handle it mentally, and you probably can't either.. people know you move in like an angel, and move out like an angry tiger.. if you want a live in position, you have to say something professional that doesn't betray desperation such as, 'I am interested in developing my skills as an on site building caretake, as well as my interest in elderly assistance, peaceful co-living, and safe and beneficial child care. If you are interested in recruiting for a nanny position, I would love to discuss your needs and expectations, as well as provide relevant references.' Your surgery is YOUR problem, and any land lord and room mate can read the code words - poor, irresponsible, possible drugs, no career or income or savings, fake disability, and irresponsible dog ownership you can't afford, entitled sob story producer who thinks the land lord must provide you with a social safety net that you, your friends and family have failed to provide. i am not saying it to be mean, but train you to get yourself together and get yourself into another place. you have to get past the red flags and manipulate your way into a new living situation. so you should not be too honest about things you said, same way you would not say which color bowel movement you had or if you have body odor or if your tooth hurts.. these are private things and don't need to be said in a professional housing transaction, and will help you slide by.. i am saying this from twenty years working in housing. and you don't want to show that you have 'attitude' either.