We have a Bearded Dragon - who is 9 years old, which is fairly old. Most BD only live 6-7 years in captivity, but I think with good care it's not out of the question to have them for 8-10 years.
They are fairly easy to keep as long as you start them off with the right set up. Like most reptiles they aren't very forgiving when set up with a bad environment, but they are more forgiving than an Iguana, Anole, etc.
Before knowing any better we got Iggy from a pet store. I had always wanted one and my now husband and I decided it would be a good pet to start with since we didn't have time for a dog. They sent us home with tons of stuff we didn't need, stuff that was dangerous for her, and just in general the wrong set up. After doing tons and tons more research we found a great forum and we basically started over with her set up, doing it correctly this time. When she was around a year old we added another BD (a male) from a breeder. He was shipped to us from California. If you opt to get one please get one from a breeder, they cost a bit more, but the same goes for them - you get a healthier pet. As for housing one in the same room with birds, I don't see that being a problem.
There is tons of information that I can share, but I'll just leave you with a few pieces of information....
1) Tank set up is a huge ordeal for them, and it can be expensive to set up. Once set up the maint/upkeep is low.
2) A good knowledge vet is a must. They can get sick and like most reptiles they don't really start to show outward signs until they are really sick. They saying goes, "It takes them a long time to get sick, and twice as long to get better". Also, keep in mind that BD are an exotic so vet care will be more expensive than normal, but I don't think it's over the top expensive (at least in my experience).
3) They need a variety in their diet, esp as they get older. As a youngster it can be really frustrating because they normally refuse to eat veggies, etc. Over time they will eat anything you give them. I feed Iggy with a more natural approach, but many disagree (ie - feeding mice). Many also recommend supplements, but I feel that is something that each person should research and make a decision about.
4) They don't have to have a cage mate, but I feel that during the time we had Pete, Iggy was much happier. With that being said, if you plan to house more than one they must be of similar size, or the small one may become food. We had to keep our male in a different tank until he was about 3/4 the size of Iggy. Also, unless you want to deal with the female laying eggs, etc it's best to get two of the same sex. Breeding is another subject.
If you want more information my PM box is open, or catch me on FB (I think you are on my FB).
....and a few pictures for you.