Good for you Adrian. Yes, the world is not standing still and people are getting left behind. 100 years ago about 80% - 90% of all industries were directly or indirectly involved in agriculture. Today it is far less than 10%. Manufacturing was the main driver in the 50's 60's and 70's. We had the IT boom and bust and now it is services. One has to anticipate and adapt. Some people are lucky to be in the right place at the right time, but most of us have to look and work for that opportunity.

I do think that there are still opportunities for innovative, passionate people who are prepared to work hard.
Your wife is very brave to work so far from home and family. Caring is a thankless job, but fortunately for her, the exchange rate makes it more worthwile.