I used to volunteer at an animal charity, in the cattery, and my kitten was rescued. I wanted to get a kitten because, over the past couple of decades, I've had a series of older, rescued pets who I've lost comparatively quickly. So, for once, I really wanted to get a baby animal and have it for most of its life.

Adult cats from shelters can absolutely get attached. I think the really important thing is to spend some time getting to know your chosen cat - don't go in and make the decision in just a few seconds. Shelter cats often have really lovely personalities, but you do get the odd one that has to be approached with great care. Also, they may be reluctant to let you adopt one kitten unless someone is home all day - we were only able to take ours because I work from home. From your schedule, it sounds like you'd be better suited to having an older cat.

As far as names go, I honestly don't think cats care that much. They tend to respond to tone of voice more than anything. My husband recently saw a black cat on the street and absent-mindedly called it by our cat's name, and it responded! If the cat does know it's name, you could start out by using both, and gradually just use the new one.