How old is too old to become a new RN?

Borntobenurse? · Jul 12, 2016

Technically no, in reality yes. You can finish and probably get a job. Even tho you have the advantage of not being in a physical profession for most of your work life, I still don't think you would make it ten years tho before breakdown (physical). The cost isn't worth it, IMO. If you haven't started prereqs it will take 2 years to get in probably. At 56 I would keep on keeping on in something else. Nursing is just going to force you to keep working longer, and its physically hard work that will just cause you pain in most specialties.

I have seen one nurse working the floor at 70 and it was a mess. She couldn't keep the pace (granted a med surg in the South is brutal on its own), and she made med errors every shift because she kept trying to take short cuts to make up for her pace (and she had 40 years in the profession). I am not ragging on her, but I know now (even tho I am in my 30's) that I do not want to be on the floor past my 50's. I wouldn't suggest it for anyone else either.

quickkarma, BSN · Jul 12, 2016

I graduated 2 years ago and a fellow nursing peer was 57. She is working and making a nice salary with an ADN! She is only a few years younger than you-then by the time you would graduate. Yes, it might depend on how quickly you get into your program. But I say, go for it! And I have to say I believe it helps to be extra healthy. Body, mind, soul. You're only as old as you feel. Jobs are out there.

AutumnApple · Jul 12, 2016

Just a thought I had but: Maybe keep your current job but supplement. It in a way that scratches the pt care itch.

Many home Healthcare places provide companions. Companions aren't supposed to to heavy lifting and such.

Being a companion won't pay what nursing does but its a very needed resource in many communities.

caffeinatednurse, BSN, RN · Jul 12, 2016

One of my classmates in nursing school was in his mid-50s when he entered nursing school. He worked on a Med-Surg unit a little after he graduated, but I don't think he cared for it. He works mainly in hospice now. He seems pretty happy with where he's at.

I agree that age is just a number. That being said, think about the kind of nursing position that you're after. Will you still want to work as a nurse once you've graduated? How long do you intend to realistically work? Just some things to think about.

Libby1987 · Jul 12, 2016

You haven't given enough information for me to think you are adequately informed re today's nursing opportunities and work conditions. I don't think anyone should commit the time and money until they do so.

Rocknurse, MSN, APRN, NP · Jul 12, 2016

Just throwing this out there...my mother-in-law is 83 and still working full time as a nurse. She's managed to master computers and has a smart phone. I am also in grad school and will be 51 by the time I graduate as an NP. I often think maybe I'm too old and then remember I will most likely have to keep working for at least the next 20 years. I might as well be doing something I enjoy and get paid well for.

madricka, BSN, RN · Jul 12, 2016

There may be a lot of reasons not to do it but there is one REALLY good reason to go for it: because you want to. I've had so many patients who were dying and regretted not living out their goals and aspirations because other people talked them out of it. It broke my heart. I think hearing from everyone is great -- these are all very important things to know and think about before you begin -- but don't let anyone talk you out of having a phenomenal life experience. Because, really, everything we do in life is to gain experience right? Well, I guess some people want to do as little as possible and slug it out, but that's wasting what you've been given.

Yes, it might be harder for you, so what? You've been through hard stuff before, no doubt. Yes, you're older. Big deal. What you do with the time you have left is your business. And that time will pass whether you are becoming a nurse or not. Study hard, network, do your best and you will succeed. You never know what the future will bring. But life is way to short to sit on the fence.

You absolutely have my vote to go for it!

AutumnApple · Jul 12, 2016

I look at everything in terms of percentages and probabilities.
I think the probability of you having a successful and rewarding nursing career beginning in your late 50's is relatively low. But low probability isn't no probability so if you really want to and you're inclined to take risks, go for it.

I suddenly feel the need to watch Star Trek. I don't know why, just do.

Search for Spock maybe.

BCCCRN · Jul 12, 2016

Best of luck to you in pursuing your dreams! I do have to mention this... Can you see yourself turning a 500 lb paralyzed patient and holding them up while getting new sheets under them? Even with help, that is serious physical back strain. What if there is only you and hopefully one other person to move this patient? When people mentioned back breaking work, they were serious. It is not uncommon to have a 500 lbs patient in a larger hospital, many of these patients are unable to move and are unable to get to the bathroom. That means it falls on you to help them.

I would do a lot of soul searching and a lot of shadowing before investing the time and money on school. Try shadowing in your area of potential interest at least 5 full days. Pay is another factor... It varies greatly from state to state. In some states new grads start out at $20.00 an hour before tax. After tax that's about $1200 or about $2400 per month. Without a BSN pay will probably be lower. Would you be taking a pay cut to do this? Can you work 12 hours straight with lifting and turning and cleaning patients up all day long? I see many older nurses who have been doing this for 30+ years. Some of them can barely walk! But they keep on nursing on. God love em. They are awesome.

If you do decide to take the plunge and work in a hospital, I would recommend a nurse friendly magnet hospital that offers lots of nursing support. No one can tell you what to do with your life, but do make sure you have all the facts so you can make the best informed decision for you. I went into nursing as a second career and it has been life changing for me. It is fulfilling and challenging in ways I never thought possible and in ways no other profession can offer. But now that I am a nurse I will never be anything else. On days when I do back breaking work, I realize if not me then who will help this person? Not the doctor, they don't tend to a patient's every need. That's the nurse's job, my job, and no one else is going to do it. That is a humbling place of privilege to care for a person in need. Best of luck to you in what ever you choose!!

morgieb · Jul 12, 2016

Listen don't let these people discourage you. When I was in School 3 years ago we had 50 and 60 years olds giving the young ones a run for their money. The physical demands are there but you can do it. Honey I'm 43 and I have spring in my step that can't be beat. Maybe some of these people are physically exhausted that doesn't have to be your story. Go for it. Don't let people rain on your dream, follow your heart and your ambition. The sky's the limit in nursing! I know plenty of people who never wanted to wipe a behind let alone do bedside nursing. Guess what you don't have to. There is such variety in terms of career paths you can take in nursing. The reality is that most of us will work well into our 70s and beyond. Enjoy your life do what you feel you are called for!

**emergenceRN17, ASN, BSN, RN** · Jul 12, 2016

If you think you can physically do it, GO FOR IT! =) ... to me.. age is just a number! Like you, I am a dental assistant and have been one for almost 20 years. When I graduate (God willing.. 2 more semesters) I will be just a few months shy of my 40th birthday. My husband on the other hand, is JUST beginning his pre reqs for nursing school. He will be 45 in a few months.

Follow your dreams while still being realistic. I bet you can do it!!

Stcroix, ASN, PhD, RN · Jul 13, 2016

Ok, I guess I have to chime in. If you want it, really want it, and you are physically fit- then go for it. I graduated at age 60 and am now in my 4th year. I spent 3 years in cardiac- med surg and am now with hospice. I might go back to the hospital. I am healthy, physically fit and work alongside and even train the 20 and 30 year olds. But like everyone says, it is a demanding but potentially rewarding occupation. I always love it when the youngsters complain about how tired they are at the end of the day, validates how I feel! Yes, it's only a number but be realistic about your physical abilities or you may find yourself well trained but not able to hack it.