Wa'al, Beaubear, he is no "kid", he is what in Virginia we called shif'less.

One idea, however: since he wants to start at the top, is there some kind of business he can start up by himself? Something he is good at or interested in?

This would be of benefit in several ways... it would get him out of the house, it would/might give his lady something worthwhile to do and might make both of them feel better about themselves.