To Gym or Not to Gym?

Find a gym that you really like. Maybe one with a pool, or sauna. Try to see it as a treat. Reward yourself with a swim / steam / sauna after exercising.

I used to belong to a gym like this and really wish I could afford it again.

I have a gym membership and tend to go early morning around 8 am. Its all over 50 's not many younger ones at that time of day.
Great atmosphere and no one to make you feel uncomfortable. As part of the membership I get classes free and use of Pool etc. Mine is only £21 per month its run by the local council with 2 gyms over the local area you can use either.
They also have Gym instructors you can personally hire.
Tbh I have suspended my membership as I've had a knee replacement before Christmas and my Hip replacement is due with luck this summer but I'll be back.
Really miss it.

If I were you I would join a yoga/pilates/aqua aerobics/tai chi class or better still a mix of different ones. You can do them through a gym or at independent classes. They are usually gentle enough for people who have never exercised, there are usually a few beginners so you don't feel like the class dummy and some of ours stayed for a coffee after so we all had a chat and met new people. Win win. Plus you get to see some improvement quite quickly if you go often enough (and actually do the exercises instead of just turning up for class ? )

Why not join a walking group or Pilates class. You would then be mixing with other people as well as keeping fit.

By the way, I'm a 72 year old lady.