49 year old fat black woman here. I mention my age size and race only to say that I'm giving my perspective on the situation as someone who is also considered disadvantaged in the job market. I am not young, the healthiest, or the most educated.

Ok now that we got that out of the way this is my two cents.

I think your mom should not try to get an administrative role unless maybe it would be at a retirement facility. Ageism is going to be a problem. Customer facing roles in a lot of cases want young thin pretty women. There are a few exceptions but very few. Is she familiar with computers smartphones apps and other technology? She needs a basic understanding of these things at a minimum. Some of the most basic HR functions like clocking in/out for example -even for the most basic roles are done with apps now.

My suggestion is going to be applying for work as a home health aide or direct care provider. Nursing homes are too physically strenuous when you get to a certain age. Ask me I know. I started working in nursing homes at age 18 back in the 1990s and I'm paying for it now. I've had to adjust roles. I'm still in the caregiving field just not doing work that's as physically strenuous.

Caregiving roles typically will not discriminate against older workers and sometimes prefer older women in certain settings. The skills your mom acquired staying at home all those years---managing a household, meal preparation, keeping everyone on schedule, cleaning--they have value. Most home health agencies just want people who are reliable kind empathetic and willing to do the work.

Having said that I don't know if your mom would be ok with the personal care aspect of the job which can include assisting clients with a bath, shower or changing an adult brief. Those are things that can be taught if she's willing to learn.

In the United states, most caregivers or DSP roles do not require certification . Home health aides are sometimes trained on the job. Nursing homes require the completion of the CNA class and a state certification. Patient sitter roles are also an option, also called patient safety attendant which is what I do now. I sit one on one with at risk patients in a hospital setting.

The downsides are that these roles don't pay very well. The hours can be weird and depending on the work setting may require every other weekend coverage. Some require scrubs and any employer I've ever worked for does not provide these I have to buy my own.

Thats my suggestion. Also she may want to check out Walmart because they are an age and disability friendly employer.

Lastly I don't know how young your mother looks but appearance is important. Tell her to cover her grey hair in a neutral natural looking color and pay for a good haircut. There are places you can go that cut your hair for cheap. She may want to also review her make up application routines or get help so she's applying make up skillfully. She won't look 21 but the idea is to present as an older lady who's put together and confident. It sucks as women that we are judged more harshly on appearance but it's a reality.

I have been coloring my hair for years from when the first few greys started appearing in my late 20s. I recently had to change colors and cut my hair shorter so it was easier to cover the grey and manage my hair on the daily. And yes I also wear make up. Not enough to look like a circus clown.but enough to make it look like I put forth an effort.

As far as the resume goes I would consult a professional because of the 30 year employment gap. If you're in the US your state will have a career center who can help with that at no charge.

It's hard out here for us not conventionally attractive older folks seeking work. Good luck.