You sound just like me....I'm 33 and started in May 2009. I knew how to skate but was not advanced. I found that to play hockey at most rinks (stick and puck, drop in, or a class) you would need full equipment. I bought used equipment from craigslist and had to buy some new as well that got me started. I spent a total of $250 (pads, skates, bag, sticks, jerseys and socks). Now that I am confident I want to continue with hockey, I plan to buy some new skates and a new helmet. Over time, as I wear out what I have, I will probably replace most of the used gear I bought.
I have been taking hockey classes once a week and have done quite well; the class has levels of players that range from just starting out to playing for several years. The one thing I found is that everyone has been very helpful and encouraging. I just went to my first drop in last week; there were seven players on the ice and everyone was way more advanced than me (probably B and C level). As I got on the ice I was worried that these guys would not want me on the ice because they were so much more advanced than I. But what I found was they were coaching me along and passing me the puck encouraging me to take the puck to the net. They were also skating circles around me! But it was a good experience and pushed me to use the skills I developed over the last 3 months.
Get out there and try it. I would suggest getting some used equipment and taking a beginner hockey class at your local rink. The class has taught me basic stick handling techniques, how to hockey stop, how to play different positions, shooting, passing, ect. I am learning the fundamentals which drop in hockey or stick and puck probably will not teach you. I (along with about 15 of the same people) keep signing up for the same 8 week class. It is a great way to improve.
Good luck.
