score:2
You need to fulfill two of the requirements, either EQD + EQM or EQD + EQS. Basically spend enough money and actually fly enough. It seems to be designed to discourage frequent travelers from buying the cheapest tickets.
Something that some airlines have that they don't publicize much, if you live overseas outside their primary market, they waive the spending requirement and you only have to fulfill the miles or segments. But you would have to check with AA to see if they offer this (assuming you don't live in the USA).
The points you earn in each category apply only to the passenger who is flying, even though you spent the money. But you can earn dollar and/or miles via credit card expenditures as well, so you maybe able to benefit from your SO's tickets that way.
Your SO should have an AA account as well, simply to keep the miles their flights earn, even if they can't reach elite levels.