That's interesting. Not knowing the OP's sex, I assumed from the context, female. Pace assumes male.
Also, are we looking at recreational flying or commercial? It will make a difference. Recreational flying shouldn't tear the arse out of the household budget if done in a reasonable manner (as in, don't buy a new jet right away
)
Getting a commercial and starting a whole new career is another thing entirely.
Now the risk assessment: as safe as you care to make it. I started on gliders in 1980, CPL in 1990 which I only used for instructing, balloon pilot in 1999, and still fly , balloons, gliders, and power. The Cub has been flying longer than I have, properly maintained and cared for. The age of the aircraft is not relevant to safety.
Your attitude is, and you need to make your own informed choice what to do. Your children won't thank you for being a boring parent, and if it is your money, YOU choose what to do with it. Mary will be along in a moment to tell you to fly a glider. Good idea. Just off to do that myself.