You might enjoy looking in the Gravel Grinder thread for inspiration.
I also need to be mindful of flats from goathead thorns. I run thicker tubes, and select flat resistant tires. If you're on 27" wheels, go as wide a tire as you can fit on your frame. Panaracer Pacelas get high marks. Not too expensive either. They make a Tour-Guard version, but people say they feel dead over the road.

Ah, the great Sedisport....closest heritage chain would be a SRAM chain. Any of the 8xx models would be good.
KMC makes a good chain too. And you can always go Shimano like a HG50.

Cloth bar tape is still available. I no longer use it myself, but there is one brand many here prefer for its ease of installation.

Koolstop still in business....I would try cleaning the blocks with sandpaper first, and see if they still stop well. Otherwise, Koolstop is the solution. Superbe Pro calipers are great! I have a pair of each generation.

They still make Delta-spec cleats...the floaters are red ARC's.

If you wish to walk in cleated shoes, SPD is the basic choice. Low cost pedals....lots of shoe choices.


BTW, old geezer or not, get back on your bike and ride! It IS the fountain of youth.