I am my mother's guardian and feel like we need a bigger vehicle. I have a Sebring convertible and I think an SuV would be easier for her and I to get in and out of. I also, take care of my grandchildren regularly and they are getting too big for the backseat. The sebring is paid for. I manage mother's trust and I am having the financial advisor to do an analysis to see where we stand for obtaining a newer bigger vehicle. I would love some input from others who are the main caregiver of their parent. I cart her to the doctors, church, vacation,etc.
Some SUVs are lower than others, I'm sure. You'll be able to tell if she can get in and out of the ones you look at.
The rollator especially is hard to fit in my car because of its configuration. And wheelchairs really need to be slid onto a flat opening in back, such as that of a station wagon or SUV.
We also have a scooter and that's a realy challenge to get in the trunk of my car. If your mother uses any kind of motorized device, you really need a car with a flat bed and not a trunk.
If she needs oxygen as well, take a few oxygen tanks when you shop for cars.
(The sales people may run when they see you hauling out a walker, rollator, oxygen tanks and/or scooter! And don't forget to take your children as well.)
I had no problem when I had a station wagon, but after it became too old to repair I went back to a sedan, which isn't working out too well. I can get the walker in the back seat but have to wrestle with the rollator. Getting the scooter in is a guaranteed back ache activity.
My Dad, who is 92, loves riding in the Jeep.... it's a tad bit of a struggle for him to get into the vehicle but he doesn't care because but it's so very easy for him to get out. When Dad is in his own sedan, he has an awful time getting in and out, sometimes it can take him 10 minutes to get out, I can't help him.
On the other hand, my Mom [96] can no longer get into my Jeep, so I have to use my parents big old Oldsmobile to drive Mom anywhere.... OMG, it's like driving a cruise ship down the highway. Mom thinks it is like riding on a cloud... I, on the other hand, am reaching for the Dramamine.
As others had suggested, before buying another vehicle have your Mom try getting in and out. But remember, as our parent(s) age, their ability changes every year.
Go to a Carmax one day with elders and try out different models getting in and out. See what's easiest.
There are also little seat cushions you can buy that swivel so they can swing around and get their legs out easier.