Old people CAN learn an instrument! I first picked up a guitar at the age of 43, with no other musical history than harmonica from 1965 when I heard Bob Dylan play 'Mr Tambourine Man'. I now play guitar, banjo, mandola, bouzouki - none very well, but I can hold my own in sessions. Also, my voice has improved greatly from just singing a lot - I've even been paid for my singing and playing! - though I'm still not sure why. Don't EVER say 'I'm too old', that way lies the slippery slope to a box - and I don't mean an accordion. Good luck, and DO have patience. My son learns everything in two goes and sometimes is less than charitable when his dad takes weeks. Knickers to him, I'll get there, and so will you. And of course, the first time someone applauds you makes it all worthwhile. Good luck!