A lap quilt is a great idea as she can use it in bed as well as with a wheel chair. Maybe you could scan a family photo on the front so it does not walk...I would ask MIL which she would rather you do, use the material and pattern you have or would she like to pick something out and pay for it her self. I am 75 this year and quilt all the time, also retired Administrator in a HUD senior housing complex. Its her mom and she will feel like something special was done for her. Bright colors liked even more hope this helps. Quiltingjaguar in Jax., FL.