I do not hand quilt because of some arthritis issues in my hands but having said that, I still would not hand quilt. Talk about a daunting task!!!! I sympathize that his mother has alzheimers but that's her & things have changed.
He doesn't drive a car from the 1920's does he? He needs to get with the program & get with modern times. I absolutely am envious of hand quilting but it is not for me & a quilt that size would be overwhelming to say the least.
Hopefully, he will understand or do like the others have suggested & teach him how to thread a needle & let him have a go at it. Good luck.