i am a still somewhat new senior rider. i found it better for me to get used to the bike first. (bought my dolce last august) i am still not riding 100% clipless since i do some runs on MUT trails and i don't want to topple over dodging someone.
but when i am on the road, i am using the cleats. i started with mountain bike shoes but got hot spots after awhile so they are used on the MUT rides. the firmer shoes are more comfortable for the longer rides. what helped me was to practice same motion of unclipping and stepping off the bike even when riding the platform to develop the muscle memory.
the most important thing is what works for you and keeps you riding.