Okay, so local/neighborhood communications? Here are my thoughts:

Not a CB...I have and still do use CBs for a long time. They require adding and tuning a quality antenna, power supply (for homebase use) and require a lot of fiddling with knobs.

Not a UV-5R. Yes, they are cheap and can often pick up EMS signals in some places but they are fragile, not weatherproof, and have poor microphones, and messy transmiting signals. They also require programming to use properly. Programming is easy if you understand everything about them but very complicated for newbies, even when using CHIRP software.

A GMRS license is, IMHO, the best way to go. Give her a Motorola or other quality handheld radio AND install a GMRS repeater + battery backup in a high spot in her house.
https://www.bridgecomsystems.com/blogs/b...rs-for-preppers

Doug, I'm always open to a phone call to discuss this more...or you and I can do a live show about it over on my social media platforms.
-Blast