Maggie, much joy awaits you. At around 56 I taught myself to play the Mandola from music in around a year. I think the key, sorry, is finding an instrument that you really enjoy playing. I love the sound the Mandola makes and the way it sits comfortably in my hands. I can't walk passsed it without playing a tune. I play most days and sometimes for hours.

I went, and still go, to Hobgoblin where they will let me play anything in the shop. See if you can find a local instrument shop and try some things out. See if you can borrow from a friend. Buy the best quality you can afford or a bit better.