There's an Acadian up in Cheticamp, Cape Breton by the name of Jerry Aucoin if I remember right, who plays an open tuning with the guitar on his lap.
He is regarded as the heart and soul of the community although I think you'd be hard pressed to find someone who regards his condition as a disability.
I'd suggest trying various open tunings, guitar, slide guitar and dulcimer techniques.
If it's what she wants, she'll find a way.
Give her my very best wishes in this regard.