Generators are not a good idea imho.
Just think about it—everyone around you has no power, and they hear a loud humming sound in the neighborhood.
When times get very difficult you need to pretend you have nothing and keep a low profile—that is far more effective than an arsenal of weapons.
It’s worse than that, actually. Her parents live in an obviously expensive home on a handful of acres with an expensive barn, horse facilities, a greenhouse, a massive pool/spa area...all right on a main road just 4 or 5 miles south of the interstate in a heavily (illegal) Hispanic area. They’re sitting ducks with no way whatsoever to defend their home and property. Plus, they’re both over 70. A generator would be the least of their problems.