Right now my mother has a 23 year old kenmore washer that has sort of stopped getting clothes clean. My mother loves it for it's big tub, top loading, and that it is so old that there is nothing high tech about it so it doesn't break down all the time from that type of stuff.

When I say it stopped getting clean sort of most of the clothes were still dirty, but some were cleaned. Previously I had an issue with a washer where the agitator broke and the clothes were just sitting in the washer. Que looking at various youtube videos and deciding to order new dogs for the washer. In the mean time she has been doing a large number of tiny loads of wash because the agitator is churning but the higher part that pushes the clothes down is not working. So her loads have been filling about a quarter of the tub and they do get clean. Obviously for an older lady this is not sustainable as each trip means going to the basement and stairs and carrying the buckets are an issue.

Anyways when the dogs came I went down to see if it was an easy fix armed with my youtube knowledge. Popping the top off the agitator was simple but getting down much further was not happening. This internal part looked nothing like what was in any video. The agitator just would not come off. Cue calling multiple repairmen explaining the issue, and sending them a picture of what the blocking part is and letting them know they would need a specific tool to reach down and loosen the bolt to get the agitator off. I also send them a picture of what I assume was the serial number on the lid of the machine.
Of course they each said sure no problem, didn't bring a tool that could reach the bolt, and all gave different answers as to what was wrong/needed/ or a solution. (if I can figure out how I will attach the pictures)

The last useless repairman just told her it can't be fixed and to buy a new one. I don't know how to help at this point so I need to know which type of washer to have her get.
I know everyone always recommends the Speed Queen, but while it is higher than she would like on budget, the main sticking point is she believes the tub is too small and she would be stuck doing multiple loads a week.

So the requirements are in order of most important tub size, cost, and then any bending required. She is a little old lady and has back and knee issues. She is worried about a front loader because of the bending, but just as worried about a top loader if it is too deep and she has to fish around to get the clothes.

Happy to answer questions if there is something not clear. And if anyone can tell from the pictures (If I can figure out how to link them) how I might get the bolt off the old one to repair it; that would be great also.