Am I too old at 60 to go for my RN?

Dear Nurse Beth Advice Column - The following letter submitted anonymously in search for answers. Join the conversation!

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I have been struggling with this question because of my age 60. I've been an LPN for 34 years. My dream was always to become an RN but because of time and money constraints and being the caretaker for my family I kept putting it off! I'm going to be a first time grandmother soon so I would like to retire at 65. IF the numbers are right!..I also know you can still work so many hours after retirement. At this point and time in my life Beth is it worth the time and the financial strain the courses are so expensive!! Hope you can sort out this dilemma for me TIME is going by too fast—Thanks and take care!

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

It sounds like you're at a crossroads with multiple intersections! There's wanting to retire at 65, becoming a grandma, the commitment needed to take on and complete school, your health and stamina, and, of course, finances.

I completely understand why this is such a tough decision at this stage in your life.

Completing an RN degree can take 18 months to 3 years, depending on the program. If you aim to retire at 65, that's a tight timeline to get the education, pass the licensing exam, and start working. 

Consider a few thoughts. Do you have your family's emotional support? What do the people who love you and know you well advise? Do you enjoy school and learning? How are your computer skills?

Financial Consulting

I suggest you consult a financial counselor and Social Security for effective financial planning. This will provide you with essential information to make an informed decision.

  • When is the best time to receive Social Security (SS) benefits? What is your Full Retirement Age (FRA)?
  • If you begin receiving Social Security before your FRA, what are the income limits for receiving full benefits?
  • If your goal is to achieve financial security and enjoy a comfortable retirement, consider how much you must earn to break even on your education and how much you need to save for a comfortable retirement. If becoming an RN is part of that strategy, working a few extra years would give you a better financial cushion. (Keep in mind that while you're in school, you likely won't be able to work full-time, so factor in loss of income.)  
  • How much will working as an RN boost your SS payments?

The Benefits of Becoming an RN

There are real benefits for you and your retirement by becoming an RN. 

  • Career flexibility. As an RN, you'll have much more flexibility in terms of job opportunities, and there is higher earning potential compared to LPN roles. This could also allow you to work part-time in a capacity that aligns with your retirement goals.
  • Job opportunities after 65. Some positions away from the bedside could allow you to scale back as you approach full retirement. You could continue to work in a limited capacity to keep your license active or supplement retirement income.

The Big Question: Is It Worth It?

If becoming a registered nurse (RN) is fulfilling a lifelong dream, it might be worth pursuing for that reason alone. Sometimes, the emotional and personal satisfaction of achieving an important goal can outweigh financial considerations. After all, personal fulfillment is priceless.

Practically speaking, it's not possible to predict how long you will be able to work. For instance, if you worked until 70 and spent the last 5 years in your career as a registered nurse (RN), would that be fulfilling and worthwhile for you? 

Focus on what matters most. With a grandchild on the way, it's natural to want to spend more time with family, which could determine how much time and energy you're willing to dedicate to education. Is it time to slow down, enjoy your family, and let it go?

Ultimately, it's about finding a balance between your financial goals, your health, and your passions. 

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

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