Like you say , what stories that could be told....you know , if you asked one of these warn down, old, broken geezers for a story, because you would be interested, and would like to share some time and a cup of coffee with someone who may have seen things that you've only read about.... My guess is that you'll have a new older friend that would be glad to share their experiences. After all, the first hand accounts of our history is lost with each passing member of the generations before.
Perhaps they were dapper at one time, and it just doesn't interest them as it may be just hard enough to survive each day in their condition but, a recollection of a time in their life that they would care to share with you , may just be enough to make this day more bareable for them, and both educational and entertaining for you.
Never be afraid to strike up a conversation with them , as long as you have the time, you may be amazed by what you hear.