Hello webjock2,
Welcome to Apple Support Communities. What happens when you try to update apps on your Mac with OS X El Capitan (Version 10.11.6)? Are you getting any errors or specific behavior?
Are you using an Apple ID with two-factor authentication?
If so, here's how to use your Apple ID with two-factor authentication on older Apple devices:
- Get the six-digit authentication code from one of your trusted devices associated with your Apple ID.
- On your Mac, log in with your Apple ID and password, and add the six-digit code at the end of the password without any spaces.
You can also generate a verification code manually:
- In iOS, open Settings > [your account] > Password & Security and then tap Get Verification Code.
- In macOS, go to the iCloud preference pane, click the Security tab, and then click Get Verification Code.
For more information, please check this out:
Get a verification code and sign in with two-factor authentication - Apple Support
We hope this information is useful. Kind regards.