Handwritten will is in poor condition.

It may be awkward but, it will obviously be the original.

I hope she lives in a state where a handwritten Will is legal. Also, she should have it witnessed and notarized no matter where she lives.

What is the reason you are going to present the Will to a lawyer? Are you going to have the lawyer get her Will typed from her handwritten draft and then witnessed and notarized for her?

Wills are extremely important documents, and it's imperative that they are done the right way. What she's doing is already a disaster!

Luckily she says when she’s done she will give it to me. I have a very safe place. She was also a paralegal, so I doubt I can get her to go to a lawyer.

Awkward is something attorneys are used to. I wouldn't fret it. Enclose it gently in mylar wrap if necessary. But certainly I would get this finished and copies made and this one placed with an attorney or in a very safe place (NOT a safe deposit) where it is assured it will not disappear. You honestly should take control of this will at this time; you can present it if elder wishes that.

If you really want to be safe, once this is finished, go with the elder to an attorney and do this legitimately for safety with the attorney keeping of the two originals as always they do.

Remember also that an unsigned and undated will is worthless. Get two disinterested witnesses if you are able.