Re: the Marlin; I strongly disagree. I’ve had Marlins for years, but lever actions and pumps are alike in that if you don’t shoot with them regularly both are likely to be fumbled under stress and short-stroked. This especially applies to firing a lever action from the shoulder and applies double to an elderly gentleman with a limited range of motion due to Parkinsonism.

The 10/22 is an excellent choice. I myself am partial to the inexpensive Marlin Mod 60 with its tubular 14 round mag on account of its nostalgic appeal and ease of reloading (.22 magazines always seem to have sharp edges).

"...if the gentlemen of Virginia shall send us a dozen of their sons, we would take great care in their education, instruct them in all we know, and make men of them." Canasatego 1744