Cameron,

You have already received some excellent advise. In addition to that, I would add the following. Whatever you get for her, make sure that it is simple, easy to use, and attractive. I would also try to prefer the familiar to the unusual. Your biggest problems will be her predilection not to use any survival gear, and her lack of knowledge of how to use it.

She should also have a small, battery powered radio. Keep it simple. An AM-FM model is as complicated as she is probably willing to accept.

Everyone on this forum loves his multitool, but your mother would probably hate one. Instead, get her some common hand tools such as pliers, screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench or two, a hammer (say 9-12 oz), and some nails. Those are the kinds of tools which she would appreciate and actually use.

Also make sure she has a copy of emergency information such as important account numbers, names, phone nos., and addresses of family and professionals she might need to contact. Include copies of insurance policies.

Don't forget to provide for any medical conditions, disabilities, and medical needs she may have.

Finally, she needs someone to help her with the hands on preparation preparations. I suppose from your post that the only such person able to do that is you. So it will be your responsibility. You can probably do it adequately with as little time as on a couple of visits each year. The time you spend working with her on survival matters should make handling any actual survival needs a little more familiar and easier for her.

Good luck,

John