I agree Cheating undermines your goal and promotes psychological weakness.
I am more than twice OP's age. I have been lifting and fighting the inevitable longer than he's been alive. Get started and never quit. Do what seems best for you. You can refine your routine as you gain experience and knowledge. It's well worth it.
How have the joints held up over time? Do you still squat?
I do, but not with a barbell behind my head, and not real heavy. Joints can be a bit creaky at times, but once I'm moving, I'm good. I'm not a big guy. I have always stayed within about a 15 lb. window. I wear the same size pants I wore in high school. In my experience, joint stiffness and pain happens when I consume carbs. Grain carbs cause inflammation for me.
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