My dad just bought one.

Is there any reason standard 1911 magazines won’t work?

I have a bunch, so I thought I’d give him some.

Since dad is getting on, any recommendations for a solid defense round that won’t break his wrists? I usually go in for +P type stuff myself...

If this is the gun I think it is, magazines for an "Officer's" (compact) size frame are what you want. They are usually 6-round flush-fitting or 7-round slightly extended. "Government" or "Commander" (both the same grip length) magazines should work, but will stick out of the grip and are subject to being jammed in too far.

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Since dad is getting on, any recommendations for a solid defense round that won’t break his wrists?

Just standard pressure loads with a hollow-point bullet. The gun is designed to function with them. A light "target" load might not cycle the action with its stiff springs. I wouldn't think a miniature .45 would be the best choice if this is an issue, but I'm sure it would kick softer than a .38 or .357 revolver of equal weight.

The New Agent is based off of the Defender frame. So yes the standard 7rd Gov. 1911 mag will fit but it will stick out. The normal flush fit magazine will be a 6 rounder (the compact or officer magazine).

Great pistol. Colt really figured it out with the 3" barrel vs. the 3.5 of the Officer.

As for ammo...short 45's always are snappy to me. I'd go with Speer Short Barrel in 230gr.

https://shopwilsoncombat.com/45-ACP/departments/373/

In addition to the 6- and 7-round mags, they also show an 8-round for compacts. This would still stick out of the grip, but it has a travel stop to prevent over-insertion.

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I wouldn't think a miniature .45 would be the best choice if this is an issue, but I'm sure it would kick softer than a .38 or .357 revolver of equal weight.

He asks my advice after he does things... much as I did.

In fairness, the only two handguns he's ever spent much time with were his NPS Model 19 service revolver and a US Navy issue 1911... to go with his BAR.