Sheri,
Hope you checked out the thread by Abby, entitled "Faith"; she is in her early 70's and just got the ileal and seems to be doing very well and is active...she also had a good recovery following the RC. And then of course, you have heard from Rick...he is very active and the diversion doesn't seem to slow him down much. I think the real key, whether she gets an Indy or the Ileal is to find a very qualified doctor and then have good follow up care with a good stoma nurse. If you want to know more about the Indy Pouch, you can click on the link below my name which covers my experience.
P.S. Don't let those doctors rush her into an appt. if she isn't comfortable with his credentials or the diversion; she needs to feel as secure as she can about the decision before going into OR. May God bless you and your mom that you will make the best and right decision for her.
Melodie, Indy Pouch, U.W.Medical Center, Seattle, Dr. Paul H. Lange & Jonathan L. Wright