The best starting point for her is her doctor, and it is very positive that she has already taken that step. But what can you do?

When you do visit, don't ask her to do too much with you when she is in the midst of those hot flashes, like going on a major shopping outing to the mall. Do easier things, preferably in air-conditioned surroundings, like visit one store only, or take in a movie or a play. Or just hang out at home.

Be supportive, but don't overdo it. Moms like to be moms, and we always guard against role reversal, which is not healthy for our kids. Let her know ways in which you need her and she can help you. Moms love to feel needed. This will help her mental outlook. When we're getting older, it's easy to feel, I'm old, my best days are over, I'm useless, no one is interested in me, etc.

Be aware that your mom's "explosion level" may be much lower than what you are used to. I have two teenage daughters, and in the best of circumstances, there are moments of frustration and flare-ups, when the teens seem very sassy and unnecessarily unpleasant. For me, I can mostly roll with that, but if I were to feel like it was 100 degrees all day long, and there was no relief, I could become very cranky, and have less tolerance for that sort of behavior. I don't know what your own situation is (your age, etc. ) but just be aware your mom may have lower tolerance for "guff."

If she seems severely down, immobile, crying all the time, etc., you could gently suggest she see a therapist. This is a hard time in life, one of transition, and professional support might be helpful, particularly if she is depressed.

Good luck. You sound like a very caring and loving daughter.