Some dementia - memory problems, so maybe a timer. She wants the comfort of a warm glow but also needs to heat a smallish sitting room with it. Want something that will be comforting but won't be a fire hazard as she can be unsteady.
Lots of options but I would pick one that does have a timer. The question is would she remember how to set the timer, how to turn it on? Can the heat in her room be adjusted? And I would check to see if the facility has any regulations about heaters. This might be something the fire department prohibits.
The ALF my mother lives in doesn't even allow heating pads, never mind electric fireplaces! I seriously doubt such a thing would be permitted as even toasters are a no-no in most places, especially when dementia is at play, since it can worsen from one day to the next. Ask the director before you purchase anything!
Can the heat in her room be adjusted?
And I would check to see if the facility has any regulations about heaters. This might be something the fire department prohibits.