Advice On Becoming A Nurse in my Forties!

Avelinne · Oct 22, 2006

Became an Lpn at 41, am working on my RN and will complete the program and be 46. Perfect time in my life since I chose to stay home to raise the kiddies. I love being a nurse and most people just assume that I have been a nurse forever... I always tell them if they ask. School was hard for ALL of my fellow classmates(the youngest was 18 yo) and nursing school really kicked our butts. Most everyone bonded studying and supporting each other throuhgout the program. I did not see the younger classmates sail through MY nursing program. So if you want it bad enough you will find the energy. You just might find strength where you did not know you had!! Go for it and Good Luck!

BigB · Oct 23, 2006

Very motivational thread. It is never to late to complete your educational goal. In my lvn program we had an age range of 18 - 59. With most students being mid 30's to late 30's.

thumper55 · Oct 24, 2006

Hey, I'm 55 & wondering if I should go back to nsg after a 19 yr leave. I know I could handle the refresher course, my big fear is handling the 12hr shifts. So, go talk with a nurse recruiter, see what they think. I think if you want it, then you'll make it happen.

tammy10221961 · Oct 25, 2006

I too can understand your hesitation and concerns. I just turned 45 this month. I'm in my third week of LPN classes. Was it strange going shopping for MY notebooks and folders instead of buying them for my kids? Yes, but it was fun too. Was I nervous the first day of class thinking that all these "teeny boppers" were going to be my classmates? Yep. But when I opened that door to the class room and found another grey hair seated here and there I felt a little more at ease.

How I look at the situation is this.. I raised my children, now its time for mom to do what she has always wanted to do. Become a nurse.

The only person who can stop you is yourself.

GO FOR IT!!

YOU CAN DO IT!!!

dotherightthing · Oct 26, 2006

You're not too anything. The in patient units can be mentally and physically stressful but the various fields for nurses are wide open. Case management in any area is really hot right now. Go git em.

chatter · Oct 29, 2006

just graduated in may. had a 57 y.o. worman in our class she was nervous but everyone encouraged her and absolutely loved her stories. You can do it. :balloons:

ella_929 · Oct 29, 2006

Awesome! Good for you! Like they said you are never too old to follow your dream! Good luck!

alliesgrammy · Nov 1, 2006

:monkeydance: I am 49 and in my first semester of LPN program, it requires longer studying for me but thats ok I am willing to do it and by Gods mercy and grace I will make it thru. Go for it!!!!!!!!

tntech1 · Nov 2, 2006

GO FOR IT !!!!! WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO LOSE???? BESIDES A CAREER IF YOU DO NOT DO IT

sandiesown · Nov 2, 2006

I am 37 years old, married, have a 4 year old, and a 6 year old (who both have various activities, teeball etc) :uhoh3: , and work a full time job at the hospital on night shifts. I am currently in the LPN program (classes M-F and clinicals on Saturday) and will graduate in July. I unbelievable have a A:balloons: average so far this semester.

I think it is wonderful that you want to do this. GO FOR IT>

The youngest in my class is 20 and the oldest is a female who is 65 years old. So, age does not matter. It is the willingness to go the distance, study study study, and do this for YOURSELF. Don't let anyone tell you it can not be done, cause It can.

GO FOR IT.:balloons: :uhoh3:

Sheri257 · Nov 2, 2006

I'm graduating at age 46. There's another student in our class who's 50.

There are a lot of older students doing it .... no big deal really.

:typing

tddowney · Nov 2, 2006

Hi, I am 48 years old. I have four children all grown and out of the house. I am looking to become an LPN and later an RN. I am really uncomfortable about my age, since I would imagine I would be with much younger students. I was a SAHM and haven't been out in the work force or at school in a long time. I am really feeling funny about going to school with such young student like I said. I don't want to stick out and , well I guess I'm not self assured.... Anyway, could anyone help me with advice, or let me know if maybe there are "ANY" alittle bit older students you've ever seen? I have wanted to be a nurse all my life and I want to make that dream come true. My uncle became an RN at 67 ... but I haven't really discussed my question with him since he lives far away and all.... Any advice would really help.... And thanks also ...

START!

Otherwise you'll be in your 50s before you know it.

I'm 53, in an accelerated program, and I'm challenged, but having lots of fun.