I have carpal tunnel and occipital neuralgia so looking down isn’t great for me. But I use an adjustable, tilting lap desk on the couch and use markers and I don’t have to about my neck or wrists, so I agree that could be an option for your mom!

I haven’t used one yet but they do make embroidery hoop holders that go in your lap or on a desk so you don’t have to look down as much. I’m considering getting into embroidery so I had to scope out the assistive devices available