I have a native American flute, a tenor size in E. Despite its limitations its sound is gorgeous! Like no other woodwind instrument. And you can play it chromatically with a bit of work.
I just wish someone would produce a recorder or other chromatic woodwind that uses the type of block that a NAF uses! It allows for subtle changes of dynamic, allowing you to play quiet without altering pitch.
As regards the recorder I would recommend starting with an alto. Much easier to get to grips with than tenor.
Also another option is a bansuri type flute.
You don't stop playing when you get old. You get old when you stop playing.