vehicle has started having a hard time going into 1st/reverse...

sounds like a clutch issue. could be a failed pressure plate.

check the fluid, master and slave for leaking as well.

Roy

Ye, I would agree it is a clutch problem and the most likely cause would be the disc is moving away from the flywheel too slowly due to lack of lubricants at the splines. Try holding the clutch depressed for a few seconds before engaging to see if it is easier to engage the gear.