PS Crowy, in 1998 they thought I had MS. Found out (in 2004) it was actually extremely advanced Lyme disease, which by then could not be reversed.
It has taken me a long time to come to grips with the limitations this has imposed.
Though I am considerably younger than you, I do know how you feel. Do not be ashamed of what genetics and age have naturally done.
It is not a "poor old man" ploy.
You might make a post for some audiophiles in your area to assist you in your endeavor. I bet you there are at least ten divorced men within a two hour drive of you, bored out of their minds who would welcome an afternoon of gear jockeying and component review. (You buy the pizza! LOL)
I've made friends this way. In a world where keyboard and screen is how we interact, it's a good thing to see someone face to face.
Or did you mean, "GROUCHY old man??" LOL
Let us all know how it works out. Be well.