The bike does make a difference. I’m a senior and when I restarted riding after more than 50 years I had the same reaction. Wanted to ride but didn’t love the riding. I solved it by getting a Specialized Turbo Levo SL pedal assist ebike. It took at least 20 years off my legs. Riding is so much fun. And I get great exercise. My cardiologist says the bike is my medicine. Blood pressure down, rhythm steady.
The bike cost a lot, but boy was it worth it.