Good for you and much good luck. Sounds like a good strategy to start out with regular walking to avoid injury. Regarding equipment, you could consider looking into adjustable dumbbells. I bought a set of those through the pandemic, and was quite happy with them. Regardless of equipment and type of activity, though, I guess staying consistent trumps everything.
I've fallen off my excercise plan too in the past year and it has definitely started showing (and like you describe, it never did before). So I'm actually just getting back on the horse myself. I'm glad you shared this.
I'd like to recommend a channel on YT called MindPumpShow. In short it's four different guys with loads of experience with training, discussing everything related to the subject. No sensational techniques or obnoxiousness, just informed discussion. Could be it's of inspiration to you too - defintely has been for me.
The only thing I don't like about adjustable dumbbells is that they often make quite some noise during usage, you can never get them properly "rooted" to not make noise. At least from previous personal experience.
Thanks, will take a look at that channel!
Ah. I may have gotten lucky with the set I have then, cause I never experiencd that. But I'll be the first to admit they're not nearly as satisfying to use as regular dumbbells - If I had the space it would be an easy choice.