I thought maybe she’d like the increased income and reduced liability as she approaches 90 years old but I see the tax issues might be too big an obstacle as she does seem pretty well off. 

Your repercussion has already happened.People who sue HUD, sue all of us.Able people who accept sec 8, landlord or tenant, are abusing an otherwise noble social program, if they position themselves to qualify as a financial strategy, rather than qualifying for reasons of bad luck.

My question is, if I can read most of the information given at sessions, and network with people in my region, or social media, what is the benefit of taking 3-4 days off work and spending a couple grand (entrance, flight, food, lodging)? 

In fact, I've already offered it when I'm the seller and I might do int again whenever it makes sense for both parties.Whatever the form of financing, it'll be more (significantly) expensive than in the US but the cash flows but the cash flow generally will be significantly higher compared to the price of the property so it won't matter than much and needn't be an obstacle.

I see a lot of folks mentioning on social media (more Facebook than here) that they wish someone would let them intern for free as a cohost.

Include website links, social media handles, or other online profiles so that people can find you.

Factor in social security and any other investments and you're sitting comfortably if you don't have personal debts going into your 60s.

Developing connections with regional authorities can yield helpful information, recommendations, and market insights.Participate on Social Media: On sites like Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, follow influencers, real estate investors, and professionals in the field.

What advice to do you have to navigating that obstacle? 

They are more focused on social issues than they are on educating the masses or helping agents sell real estate.NAR is trying to sell this agreement as a win, but they threw our entire profession under the bus and it's going to hurt us in the long run.