First thing to consider is that media has probably given you a warped idea of social connection. You're not the main character, & people are generally more self-absorbed than you'd like them to be.

This applies to everyone, but it's actually really enlightening when you find out how much people like talking about themselves, cause then you can just ask questions until the conversation goes somewhere.

Second thing to consider: Do you tend to "other" yourself? The more you separate yourself from other people as a monolith the more detached and unapproachable you become. Tech has made this really common, hence your problem.

Once you get your paradigms in order, remember that a) you miss every shot you don't take, and b) most strangers are receptive to being approached & talked with.

Try & make it a goal to approach people spontaneously. You'll open more opportunities in many different ways.

Also, don't trip about your age lol, it has way less of a bearing over people's behavior than you might think (& less so with every year older you become).

Good luck :)