They were good friends of the couple that previously owned our boat then.

My first thought was what boat are they sailing? As it turns out they're sailing a 47'er, a ketch, with in mast furling. It too is an older boat that they have owned for decades and they have made it more user friendly. I would say they were in their mid 70's and in terrific shape (scrawny as you call it ) In fact, they rowed nearly a half mile to come say hello after recognizing our boat going by.

I know I'll have to make my mainsail easier if I intend to sail this boat for a long time. I don't have any good advice there, yet. I'm considering a Dutchmen system on my next main. I have seen them work and they look as close to self furling as I've seen.

It's so good to see people your age and even beyond still sailing. Your boat is a good sailer and I suspect you enjoy it's performance. Hope you get some good advice. Good luck.