If you're comfortable breeding mealworms, that makes the feeding side much easier, but I wouldn't plan on mealworms being the only feeder forever. I'd keep a couple of other options available if you can get them occasionally, mainly for variety.
For heating, I'd definitely get proper digital...
I wouldn't worry too much about the change. Leopard geckos are generally more concerned with having a stable enclosure, proper temperatures, hides, and a consistent routine than with what room they're in. Since your gecko has spent 9 years around your daily activities, she's probably accustomed...