ccrummett If you're using the EA App, your system runs macOS Catalina (10.15) or newer, which means it cannot run any 32-bit apps, which means you're running the 64-bit version of Sims 3. The game wouldn't even open otherwise.
For the crashing, have you installed any mods or custom content? If so, please rename the Sims 3 folder in Documents > Electronic Arts, or move it to your desktop. Doing so will prevent the game from reading its contents, including any saves you have, but the files will all be intact and can be restored later.
If that doesn't help, please try playing with your computer offline. You can sign into the EA App and put it in offline mode, then disable wifi before pressing Play.
If that doesn't help either, please list the full specs of your Mac: everything under About This Mac including the operating system and except for the serial number.