I'd get an estimate and then decide. Take into consideration your mom's ability to learn how to use a new machine, or if she is willing to learn how, some older folks can be stubborn when it comes to change. If you buy her a new machine check out the Brother machines at Wal-Mart, they are inexpensive and easy to thread and use. My 94 year old neighbor bought one about a year ago because her old Kenmore quit working. She loves it and lately has been sewing more than me!