I feel this does not address the question directly. I know passionate, good developers over 50, and they do have hard times on the free market (I can still use 'they' as I'm few years younger). It raises the question - when were you last time actively job hunting?
Thanks -- actually, interviewing is also a skill that is about as important as your tech background. I'm lucky to be gifted in the way I can convey my passion(s) (despite english not being my native language)
-- but people who don't will always struggle --
-- MORE so as they get older! --
So I know it sounds silly, but acting classes, talking in front of the mirror or whatever else might help a lot more than staring at a screen for a few days...
