I saw that also. Just easier and no requirement for health insurance from inside Thailand. (I have TRICARE which they do not accept as proof of insurance).
I came to Thailand visa exempt 4 months prior and opened up a bank account with agents help. Transferred $ from my US Bank to "season" for 2 months prior to applying for retirement visa.
Same boat as you. It has been about 35 years for me also. I would take bike out at 6am in Pattaya to get practice. Now Living in Nong Bua Lamphu, not much traffic so easier for this old fart to get around. Wife still refuses to ride with me though 😀