"This is going to sound kinda cruel but in the meantime, we agreed that we would write down a list of household chores he can do every day to help keep him moving (instead of watching tv and or turning on the computer). He was agreeable to that, he says he doesn't mind doing that stuff but doesn't always think of doing those things. He is a little scatter-brained sometimes."
I agree with Dom R. It's hard for them to open up about these issues and the validation must come as you said from within.
I wouldn't go with household tasks right now but encourage to get him involved with things related to his area of expertise so he can feel motivated to go back to work. Also and do some healthy things for himself like some sport that can build his self esteem. I say this because if what happened has something to do with his boredom, he can get resentful by doing something that he does not appreciate right now.
