There is a terrific documentary, 'Its quieter in the twilight', about the aging and dwindling team that still runs both Voyager missions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6L9Du_IFmI
Like most things, "dont knock it till you have tried it". You never have to do something you are either uncomfortable doing or are unable to do; and there always progressions for movements that might be difficult for you. For example, many overhead movements are difficult for me but the coaches will always work with you to find something you can do that will still be challenging and achieve the goal of the workout.
I remember as a 17 year old spending 50 Irish pounds on a copy of Turbo Pascal and being giddy with excitement when the brightly colored box and manuals arrived. I pretty much memorized them, and of all the things from the late 80s its the one I wish I had kept!
I love this, with research and forward planning you can create magical experiences. One of my favorites when my son was very young is there is an island on cape cod we could paddle our canoe to and camp fronting a sandy beach under the shade of pine trees with warm protected waters for $8 a night (MA residents); the catch is that you had to book one of the dozen or so sites months ahead.
> I've had increasing trouble reading books for years.
I've experienced this as well, and the only solution I have found is to take periodic breaks from my phone and all social media. Within a day or two of minimizing phone use that natural curiosity and desire to learn and motivation to read reemerges.
Elitest nonsense, while he's not everyone cup of tea he has had some excellent guests on. Its the great thing about freedom, you can choose to consume it or not.