Gary, Your post is filled with lots of wisdom and experience. My hope is that these next-gen advances we speak of happen more quickly. Our world is changing quickly, like the UK's SI 2025 No. 87, with AI, software, and such. So I do anticipate positive change will move increasingly at an exponentially faster rate.
Take care. Sorry if I am overstepping on the advice side, but when my back is sore, I do many repetitive, slow, stretch and release motions. Hold and breath in to get the blood to fill the aching back area. My back usually feels much better in the morning. De-stressing is also a big part. Best for you and your wife.