Considering Nursing School at 52 Years of Age

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Specializes in None.

I'm 52 years old and am considering pursuing an LVN route. I'd considered nursing many years ago, but was talked out of it and regret I didn't pursue this course. I'm energetic and fit as a fiddle, so to say - very athletic and love life, and love helping people. I'm also a hospice volunteer, and have done lay counseling in grief and relationships. I have experience in clerical work, accounting, and human resources, and have a B/A degree in History. I'm listing these things as a means to briefly describe my background and experiences. I'm considering the LVN route because I'd like to have more hands-on, personable experience with the patients. I want to be able to assist them both physically and emotionally.

My questions are these: Would my age be a factor in "not" considering pursuing a nursing career? Also, I've thought about the private school route, since I heard that there isn't a waiting period, and the pre-reqs can be completed during that time. Does anyone know about American Career College in Ontario, CA? And what is the tution there? I have saved my money over the years, so I may be able to afford and pursue this route.

Any and all information would be truly appreciated! I don't mind hearing the truth, albeit pros or cons. I just want to make sure I have as much information and viewpoints as possible before pursuing this route. Thanks in advance! :specs:

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Specializes in med/surg, telemetry, IV therapy, mgmt.

My mother went to LVN school in California at age 50 and worked until she was 68. There was a large group of people in her class around her age. I don't know why people feel that school is only for the young. We learn from the day we are born until we take our last breath. It is society that wants to tells us that going to school after a certain age is not the correct thing. If you are ready and this is your time then go for it.

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Specializes in None.

Daytonite, thanks for your reply! It's quite encouraging to hear that your mother went to LVN school at 50 years of age. I like what you said, "We learn from the day we are born until we take our last breath." That is how I feel. I want to learn, as well as help people who are in need, till my last breath. I know that I'm ready to pursue this route, for I'd been thinking about this continuously for the last year. I'm very eager to start work in this field and be of service for as long as I'm able to!

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Geriatrics, LTC.

I'm 51 and started nursing school in January. I'm acing all my classes. I was a teacher before and now am changing careers. There are three other 50-somethings in my class, three in their 40's as well. It doesn't matter at all, in fact having lived a full life makes it easier I think. Go for it

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Specializes in Telemetry.

Go for it!!! Good luck to you!

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I graduated last week and I'm 53 ... soon to be 54

Go for it, you will never regret it :nuke:

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Specializes in EMS~ ALS.../...Bartending ~ Psych :).

I am 44 set to graduate in August with high honors, and I personally feel that my age is an asset... I feel totally respected by not only my instructors, but the staff and patients at my clinical sites as well.

I have absolutely no regrets

Good luck to you

J.Q.

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i am 50 and in school right now, for a pn refesher course, i haven't nused in over 15 years!! i am enjoying it!! i say go for it there is another 50+ in my class as well good luck and keep us updated!!!

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Specializes in None.

Thank you all for sharing your experiences and also encouraging me to pursue this route!! I started another thread with this same post in the General Nursing discussion board, and received a lot of encouragement there as well. Thus I'm feeling even more moved to pursue this goal. As I mentioned in the General Nursing forum, I've decided to sign up at Chaffey College in California, and pursue the CNA route to not only get my feet wet in the profession, but to also get hands-on experience with patients. It'll also give me the chance to see all that's involved and whether I want to later pursue Vocational Nursing and subsequent higher education in Nursing. I like the fact that there is a sense of camaraderie in this field, regardless of what age or gender a person is. This is such a wonderful site for not only getting detailed information about the Nursing field, but also receiving and giving encouragement to each other. Thanks again for your replies and your own personal achievements! Kudos to all of you as well!!

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just a note to let you know i took my midterm and got an "A" yeah for me!!! every step of the way i am gaining more and more confidence.

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Specializes in None.

lorettap, that is wonderful news that you got an A on your midterm!! Congratulations!!!:yeah:I'm certain that that has increased your confidence and you will continue to do well on future exams!

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It is never to late to persue you dreams! If it is what you really want go for it! I'm sure you will succeed!:yeah:

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