Hi Peter,
Firstly, age is absolutely no barrier to starting to turn, I have had new students over 80!
If you can get some tuition, preferably from an experienced/approved tutor, that will get you going quickly. By the end of a 2 1/2 hour session, my students almost allways achieve a cylinder from a square section with a roughing gouge and smoothed with a skew chisel. Another 2 1/2 hours should see some coves and beads with a spindle gouge. Maybe quicker with 1 to 1 tuition.
If you go it alone, it could take a lot longer, but I would recommend ‘Woodturning A Foundation Course’ by Keith Rowley which comes with a DVD. It would also be worth visiting a local club. Check http://www.awgb.co.uk for clubs and tutors in your area.
Remember – SAFETY FIRST – Use proper PPE and learn how to sharpen tools properly, blunt tools are dangerous.
Good luck and enjoy your turning. Beware, it is addictive!
Best regards,
Tony