Without a doubt worn bushings in the steering system can cause lots of issues, loose/sloppy feel definitely. If in doubt, replace all of them. As mentioned, have a friend (or anyone willing to help) get in and turn the wheel while you watch how everything underneath reacts. Again, if in doubt, I'd replace all of the bushings and likely the tie rod ends too. Also look under the hood to check the rag joint & u-joint on the shaft, and check how/where the steering box mounts on the frame; loose bolts or cracks around the mounting surface aren't uncommon.