As everyone is saying, the age shouldn't be a factor. If the disks are now dry, they are probably ok as well. Just do a quick check of the disks.
Does the metal cover slide easily? While you have that door open, look at the surface of the disk inside. Does it have a lot of dust on it or moisture stains?
Will the disk (inside part) turn or move around? the metal round part in the middle of the disk, don't press to hard on that though.
At any rate. As long as the metal (some times plastic) door opens easily and the disk spins inside the drive, it should not harm your disk drive.
