Am I too old to become a nurse?

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Hello there!

I'm a 43 (almost 44) year old pre-nursing student. I would LOVE to become a nurse but worry I'm too old. I've done really well in prereqs so far (4.0) and will be able to apply to programs in a year. For what it's worth, I'm in good shape physically and (usually lol) mentally. ANY input would be much appreciated! Happy Holidays to everyone out there!

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Specializes in ICU.

Of course not! I had classmates in their 40s, 50s and 60s! My friends GRANDMA went to nursing school THIS year! No one is ever to old IMO ?

You are obviously a great student in your pre-reqs which is a good sign already. I think you will be fine! If this is your passion, dont let anything stop you!

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Specializes in Frontline stuff.

No. Not at all.

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I’m 50 and just graduated in May at 49. I am in a new grad program in the ED. I was not the oldest in my cohort by a lot!

Go for it!!

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Everyone-

WOW. I'm blown away by all the positive responses. I really was worried about my age because literally no one in my prereqs has been my age so far! Ahhhh so relieved. Thank you everyone!!!

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5 minutes ago, TbistheMc said:

Hello there!

I'm a 43 (almost 44) year old pre-nursing student. I would LOVE to become a nurse but worry I'm too old. I've done really well in prereqs so far (4.0) and will be able to apply to programs in a year. For what it's worth, I'm in good shape physically and (usually lol) mentally. ANY input would be much appreciated! Happy Holidays to everyone out there!

This topic comes up constantly and the answer is different for everyone. Physical health is certainly a consideration, but so is financial well-being.

Things to consider:

How much are you paying?

If you're borrowing money, will you be able to comfortably pay it back before your working years are over?

What are you doing right now and why do you want to change direction?

You might also ask yourself if you're okay starting at the "bottom" at this point in your life. Be aware of what types of jobs are available to new graduates in your area, as well.

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Regarding your questions-

I just had a physical and found out I'm in great health so that's good. I'm in great financial shape- no debt, healthy savings account, etc. I have been a housewife for the past 9 years. Before that, I worked as a secretary.

I am applying to ADN and BSN programs. The ADN programs around here are ~$7,000 and the BSN are....a lot more. All of my local community college programs have a partnership with a local college enabling us to earn a BSN after in ~1 year. Those programs, from what I've seen are ~30-40K.

I want to change direction because healthcare always sounded really interesting to me and I really miss working. I know this will make some of you lol. I would like to get my CNA after my prereqs (maybe earlier, still undecided about this one) in case I don't get into nursing school the first time.

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Specializes in Critical Care; Cardiac; Professional Development.

Nope, NOT too old at all. More than 1/3 of my nursing class was over the age of 35.

I am 49. I have been a nurse for 8 years.

Getting your CNA is a really good idea.

Reach out to those of us of a similar age when you need support. You are far from alone. Good luck!

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Specializes in ICU.
19 hours ago, TbistheMc said:

Regarding your questions-

I just had a physical and found out I'm in great health so that's good. I'm in great financial shape- no debt, healthy savings account, etc. I have been a housewife for the past 9 years. Before that, I worked as a secretary.

I am applying to ADN and BSN programs. The ADN programs around here are ~$7,000 and the BSN are....a lot more. All of my local community college programs have a partnership with a local college enabling us to earn a BSN after in ~1 year. Those programs, from what I've seen are ~30-40K.

I want to change direction because healthcare always sounded really interesting to me and I really miss working. I know this will make some of you lol. I would like to get my CNA after my prereqs (maybe earlier, still undecided about this one) in case I don't get into nursing school the first time.

I definitely suggest doing community college for ADN- then find a job you love, work as an RN & a lot of employers will pay your tuition to get your BSN. Some only reimburse SOME amount of school.. but others will pay 100% if you agree to stay for a while ?‍♀️

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I'm 46, and won't even be ready to apply into nursing program until next spring, for fall. Never too old to pursue a dream! Hence, my username!

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Specializes in certified orthopedic nurse.

Not at all too old. I do have some youngsters in my community college nursing program but the many, many are veterans, second career learners, or stay-at-home parents re entering the workforce. You may actually have an advantage with your age since most nursing instructors are gen-xers or baby boomers and you may mesh better with their teaching style than do the young students.

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You are not to old, but you would get less money compare to 20 years old nurses, because they have more years of experience under their belt compare to you. Your work experience would not count.

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