Good question..
Technology (graphite shafts and balls) has helped my game especially as I age.
At 28 I was 5 hdcp, then playing golf was minimal because of family and more so work. At 70 my game isn't quite what it was when I was best BUT with Forward tees my loss of distance is somewhat compensated for.
My game today is quite enjoyable, from scoring (high 70's to low 80s) to playing, course management, consistency and the personal challenge.
As a student of the game for over 50 years I still wake up everyday ready to challenge par and improve my game.
I have used equipment from the 80s to current and I have found little difference, basically I lack the fitness level to take advantage of the technology.