Bob

Yup, but still worth looking at B1/B2 if she thinks of staying longer than 90 days just as a back up.....those visa's are good for 10 yrs, but then you have to be gone for as long as you stayed before they will let you in...pretty much...

Pulaski

Private insurance - and it's d@mned expensive! Try a google search for "Blue Cross Blue Shield" as they seem to cover many (most?) states and have (relatively) reasonable rates.
Same as Britain - speak to a funeral home and they'll arrange it all, but it can be as expensive, if not more so, than in the UK.
Book in advance if you can - the rates are much better on-line in advance than for walk-ups at a car rental desk. And make sure that you take up the extra insurance options - they seem expensive, but if you need to claim on them you'll soon realize that they were a bargain!
If you have a full licence in the UK as a visitor to the US you are OK driving for 12 months (which in any case is longer than a vias waiver will allow you to stay).
Like someone said above, buy a lap top, and then pick-up one of those AOL dics from any computer/ electronics store and you'll get a gazillion free hours of internet time.

ironporer

You might consider applying for a B-2 (I believe) which is good for 6 months. As medical situations can last more or less time, this would seem a better option.

As for funeral arrangements, upon arriving (before needed) go visit various funeral homes in the area and ask to pre-plan/price funerals. It is always better to plan things before, when your mind is clearer and emotions do not get so involved. Funerals can be quite expensive, so better to pre-plan and realize what your in for.

Car rentals can get expensive- although you can get weekly/monthly rates. Expect to pay $200 a week from major companies, plus the cost of insurance (as you don't have existing US insurance to use for the rental)- which will probably be more than the rental itself.