Im 53 and looking into Becoming a CNA

Published

I have read the downsides of being a CNA so my eyes are at least half open, but im wondering if I would be seriously considered for employment at my age. I am in florida, educated, good white collar employment history but all non-medical, professional appearance etc etc

would i have to work for an agency? Would it be difficult even getting the first interview with HR? I welcome all comments and experiences especially from anyone who has been in my shoes

little too old to go for nursing, The studying or hard work is not an issue, just wonder if it would take too long assuming I work to late 60s

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Prior military RN/current ICU RN..

CNA is hard work. You are talking lifting and moving 300 pound patients. 12 hour shifts. Can you physically do this? Think long and hard at what your body can withstand. CNAs where I work are going non stop for 12 hours. I am not saying don't do it, but just realize what you will be doing. Maybe there are places where CNA work isn't as physically demanding. Check it out, but realize what you may be required to do. Good luck man.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in retired LTC.
little too old to go for nursing, The studying or hard work is not an issue, just wonder if it would take too long assuming I work to late 60s
Comment by PP is very true. Also the pay for CNAs is piddly poor, not much above minimum wage. It's so sad that they're are so marginally underpaid but overworked for the care they provide in LTC.

And at your age and with your "white collar" background, you;ll find that there is no autonomy and decision making opportunity. I doubt you will be satisfied, least of all, not happy.

You are NOT TOO OLD for nursing. LPN education is relatively short and those nurses do provide valuable service. I know there's many folk entering nsg school for RN, but that would take longer for a short career window (and it sounds like you are looking for a retirement).

If you and I were talking in person, I'd be cautioning AGAINST CNA and recommending LPN.

You asked for "all comments". JMHO. Good luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation.

Never too old for nursing! Had plenty of 50's in my class! But yes, do nursing, not CNA! If you are looking to go into healthcare but maybe not nursing, there are plenty of other options such ER tech, radiology tech, EMT, as mentioned LPNs, psychiatric tech, etc. Many jobs in the healthcare industry.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I decided to return to school at the age of 49 from a white collar job in hopes of becoming a nurse.

My first step was to become a CNA to ensure I even liked the filed.

Let me tell you..... My eyes were opened. CNAs do an almost impossible job for way too low of pay.

As other posts have mentioned... No, you're not too old, if you're in at least decent shape. And, you most likely will be dissatisfied very quickly and want more in filed (if you like it at all).

I did eventually become a nurse. Still very hard work and yet, gratifying at the same time

Good luck in your decision

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC and Pediatrics.

Do the LPN class. You are not too old. I did it in my mid-50s. You can do the CNA bit to work through school, but you will find that while the two work as a team, they are different in the scope of what they can do. LPNs get paid more too.

I worked as a CNA and at my age, I am thankful that I didn't need to do that too long. I help out the CNAs all the time, but I much prefer the other aspects of being a nurse. Assessing, evaluating, being an advocate for the patient, those kinds of things.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Palliative.

Nursing school for sure!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in retired LTC.

Coming back - I always have concerns with folk who try entering nursing as second-careers. As I said in my other post, I believe that lack of autonomy & decision making will be a monumental change. And TY to PP for echoing my concerns.

It's something to consider if one is in that phase of lifestyle & career when retirement is a reality. Job satisfaction, finances and general health are determinant factors that those young'un whippersnappers nurses aren't thinking about.

Even younger second career folk may have little wiggle room for long range retirement planning if they start late. The monies and benefits aren't anything to write home about in the short term.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Suggest you research work related injuries among certified nursing assistants before making your decision.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in retired LTC.

Maybe volunteer for a short while and WATCH what goes on 'in the life of a CNA at work'. And SUBTLY ask a CNA what they make/hr.

I think that'll make an impression.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Seems that would be your choice. Work till late 60's being a CNA or work till late 60's being a nurse. Nursing is more money.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in retired LTC.

Fibroblast - wish I could 'SUPERlike' or like like like your post.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion