Yes, she was abused or perhaps I should say badly treated in teh past. The things you want her to do were the sort of things she was "fussed" at for doing. She does not have a lot of self esteem. I get the image of her cringing a lot. She just doesn't understand.
She may never play with toys but if you continue to work with her and encourage her she will be a great companion to you and learn to do many things. I am telling her that you and your husband will talk to her about what you want her to do and will continue to help her.
Paul