Admittedly insurance coverage varies greatly, but even then, there are a lot of guides and resources available as well that may not have fees attached.
I understand you say that your mother isn't willing to speak with her friend. But that wouldn't stop you from approaching them, or anyone else on your own, would it? Sometimes we have to take some steps outside of our comfort zone to get where we want to go. Perhaps there might be organizations (and not necessarily local) who can help with contacts and information?
As you noted yourself, age is not something that would hold you back. Many professional programs want their students to come from a variety of walks of life, and so being a mature student with an unorthodox background can actually be a potential advantage. If you haven't already, I'd suggest you try talking to as many admissions advisors at as many schools as you can (and even consider overseas ones, if the credentials are portable back home - I know of MDs who went to schools in the Caribbean or Australia before returning for their residency) to see what they want, and make yourself as suitable and as interesting a candidate as you can.
As
@paloftoon noted, the main disadvantage with starting later is that you may have less time to actually work in the field. But if that's what you want to do, then by all means go for it! I've seen many people in their 60s retire, and then venture out to start a completely new career out of personal interest. And if there's one thing people on the spectrum are good it, is getting really good at their special interests.
I want to add to
@Stardust Parade's comments and agree that it's not unusual for people to take a longer path to a certain career.
I'll use nursing as an example. The standard path to be an RN (registered nurse) in my area is to complete a 4 year BScN degree. Some enter from high school, whereas others may have other backgrounds and experiences.
But it's quite common for many to spend ~1.5 years to get a certificate in being a care aid, another ~1.5 years from there in a bridging program to become a practical nurse, then 2.5-3 years in another bridging program to get their four year degree and become a registered nurse.
And many of those in the path are working along the way - which helps them earn money and gain experience in related fields that helps both solidify their school applications and confirm their interest in the field. And for those doing the program part time, the completion times can be even longer.
There are also many who take the long path who were trained as and have experience as a RN overseas, but on not having their credentials recognized here, started over from scratch. I take inspiration from their efforts and dedication and hope you do as well.
music was my lifeline for so much of the seriously crappy years of my life. It's still my go-to for emotional regulation and so much more. There are tv shows I absolutely love watching, (new and old) and will watch repeats for relaxation or entertainment (among other reasons)., and/or look forward to new episodes of if there are any. 
)
