Hi Ranch, and sorry to hear about your shoulder problems. My shoulder joints are bone on bone, but I'm active and that seems to keep pain at a minimum. I'm also 70 y/o.

A reverse shoulder replacement is required when there has been damage to the rotator cuff, the group of muscles/tendons that surround the shoulder joint. A reverse replacement puts the ball that is on top of the upper arm bone and places that ball at the end of the clavicle. From what I've heard, the sensation is a little strange and range of motion is decreased, but pain should go away.

So should you have the surgery at 85? Well that's a personal decision. If you are in otherwise good health and experiencing a lot of pain, probably good to have it done. I hate yo cop out but the answer is that it's really up to you and your Dr.

All the best to you! Joe