Advice for older nurses returning to work, please?

[HereIamagain]

Hello everyone, I'm a new member and would like your help. I've been a nurse for 23 years but had been out of "active duty" for a few years until last summer. I'd worked as a medical language specialist for 8 years until the position was eliminated due to budget cuts, and suddenly found myself unemployed. After working with an employment counselor, I signed on with a large home care company who promised full-time work in my locale. This did not materialize, so I accepted a position closer to home in a long term care facility. I was able to jump back into things, revamp my skills and gained experience on a dementia unit as well as basic LTC. Due to concerns about practicing safely there, I moved to another LTC facility, where I currently work part-time, nights as a geripsych charge nurse. This has been a good match.

My spouse has been out of work for 2 1/2 years and has medical issues. I need to find additional work to support my family. I signed up on a few job search sites and receive a hefty dose of help wanted ads each day. I've dutifully filled out applications, have spoken to recruiters but seldom get a bite. I'd like to talk with other older nurses who are returning to the profession after an absence, both for your suggestions and to commiserate. I'm an R.N. with a B.A. in Human Development/Family Studies. My specialty was hospice nursing. I began in long term care soon after graduation. I've also worked in high tech pediatric home care as well as private duty later on.

My husband is a talented LPN who sustained on-the-job injuries about 15 years ago. He did triage and reception work in a local hospital for 5 years until losing his job more recently. He has renewed his license and as far as I can tell, has done all the things he should be doing to find employment. He's 64 now and I'm 63.

What are we doing wrong? Is it ageism? We're both discouraged and wonder what's going on. Any ideas would be welcome.

[JBMmom, MSN, NP]

Wish I had a magic answer for you, I hope that something works out for both of you soon. My only suggestion would be to reach out to any contacts you might have to see if you can get a foot in the door for other positions. I know a number of nurses that have had similar problems finding jobs, even with experience, while others are able to find them through contacts. Good luck!

[saskrn]

I've noticed recently that there are several local travel contracts for LTC. There might be something in your area. Have you considered that route? The pay is good, and there's often the opportunity to renew.