He's 79 and has "artwork" like that out in the open??

My guys LOVE the round trackball with cardboard scratching area in the center; as soon as I unwrapped it and set it on the floor, there was a flurry of scratching. I didn't think they would take to it, but it still is a hit.

Another scratching post that really works is one that looks like a squat tripod. I bought it years ago and have replaced the sisal once. They can sit on their haunches and scratch like mad on that thing. There are so many options out there. Methinks Buddy's person should wander around PetSmart and see what's available.