As you likely see in all the responses, some people have had success with pain pump; others(like me) not so much. Same with the SCS. Many have benefitted (like me); others not so much. I am in my 70s as well. The docs did not seem hesitant to go ahead with the pain pump. I had much better success with the SCS. It helped reduce my pain by about 60%. With both devices you can have a trial. A sort of "try before you buy". With the pain pump I would recommend having a trial in which they attach a temporary pump to your back. Then you wear it for 5-7 days. I wish you well.