OK, this is a different perspective, but having worked with my elderly parent I think your husband wishing to work at some level is about his pride and self esteem. Maybe he needs to do it for these issues alone.

As far as ramifications - no clue. But for him personally there may be a huge benefit. He will feel like a contributing member of the family again. Even if it is volunteer work he would be able to feel some self worth again through an organization. Independence is a very tough thing to lose at any level at any age.