1998 Honda Accord Car ride feels bumpy

I thought I had a bent rim, car was riding bumpy from the back, mostly noticed when driving <40mph. Was told I had a bent right rear rim and had some front sway bar links and bearing "wearing out" but still intact. I was told this wasn't a big issue. Replaced the rim. No change noted in my ride, still feels bumpy. Is the sway bar link/bearing issue related to the bumpy ride? Quoted $290 to fix. Is this normal for age? I was told the rim was the reason for problem and the links were incidental. I am afraid that now my car's getting older and they are going to add every time extra stuff. They tried to tell me to replace my timing belt too. I just did it 2 years ago. They apologized when they heard that. Lost trust now. Any info helpful. Thanks.