Pb50, I admire the clarity and courage with which you approach the situation of your life.
I don't remember if you have pets, but I will share that my dog deserves credit for waking me every morning, eager to start our day with a well-established ritual we both enjoy. Then later in the morning we go for a walk, one to two miles, and a second walk most evenings. I walked off 42 pounds last year!
I adopted Hazel at 71 years old (me, not her), the first time I've had my own dog.
We found an adoption agency that is very careful to establish "good fit" between the dog and the person. When you adopt an adult dog you have a good idea of the dog's personality and you don't need to go through 18 months of puppyhood training.
Hazel helps me stay in the present moment, saves me from my ruminating moods. My wife also has a dog, chosen to help with her difficult health and mood issues.
Despite the cost, they are cheaper than medical persons, and are here for us 24/7.