Is age 45 too old to start nursing???

[Toots71506]

Hi - I know 45 isn't that old but for those of you who have started nursing around this age or worked with someone who is new and this age, is it difficult?

[rn999]

I would say no, 45 is not too old - that's only 2 yrs difference when I started the nursing program. I will be 47 when I graduate. There are some other nursing students in my class who are older ans we tend to be the ones who work together in group projects, presentation, etc. As you know, younger people tend to clique to their own group also. Overall, just need to take care of yourself - healthwise/lifestyle and you will be able to keep up with the rest. Nursing program even to the younger ones, you would hear can be difficult and requires a lot of time studying, writing, etc. Good luck!!!

[tgirl84]

There were a few older adults in my group, and they got some of the best grades in the whole class. Go for it!

[happydays352]

My Mom became a nurse at the age of 41, she worked very hard and graduated top of her class. I think it was hard for her to pick up new skills quickly, but she never let that stop her. If you want it badly enough you can do it!

[carrie13]

There were quite a few people in my nursing class that were in their 40's. We had one woman who was in her late-50s. I definitely don't think 45 is too late to start nursing. I'm 29 and I was one of the youngest in my evening ADN class when I graduated last year - most of the students were pursuing nursing as a 2nd career or were stay at home moms who started after their kids started school full-time or went away to college.

Good luck!

[RNDude]

There's a new grad at my hospital in his 50s who is really sharp and doing very well. In my ADN program, there was a woman in her 60s who graduated with me.

I wouldn't hesitate to recommend nursing to you on the basis of your age. Good luck!

[SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN]

I'm 54, became a nurse at 52.

Sure, it's hard. But not because I'm old. Because it's nursing, and not easy.

[VivaLasViejas, ASN, RN]

I'm 54, became a nurse at 52.

Sure, it's hard. But not because I'm old. Because it's nursing, and not easy.

EXACTLY!!!

I was a few years younger than you when I graduated, and I had to get out of med/surg by the time I got into my late 40s, but that's because I've not treated my body kindly. Now that I'm a manager and can move about or sit down when I choose, I can see myself working well into my 60s, if not longer. I say, GO FOR IT!!

[captron74]

It was good to hear all the positive answers. I started college when I was 48, never went to college prior to that time. I have been on the Dean's list for four semesters now, and am a member of PTK. I will be starting clinical in two months and am ready to give it all, just like I have been. Younger students may be able to type faster that me, but after 51 years, there is a lot more in my brain to pick and choose from.

[HM2VikingRN, RN]

I started an accelerated program at 45. I am graduating 12/15/07. Very doable. Follow your muse...

[Ms Kylee]

Geez, I hope not... I started nursing school just 3 months shy of my 45th birthday... I've just finished first level of my LPN program. I'm the second oldest in my class. I just wish I wouldn't have been talked out of going to nursing school 25 years ago. I've always dreamed of being a nurse, and now I'm going to do it... and nothing is stopping me.

[Piki]

No, it's definitely not too old. I was 41 when I graduated (a few months ago). I thought I would be the oldest in my class, actually, I wasn't, not by a long shot. The average age was probably mid 30's in my class, we had a couple kids right out of high school, and 1 or 2 about age 50.

Here's what someone told me when I wondered if I would be too old to start nursing. You're going to be 42 (God willing) someday anyhow, so, do you want to be 42 and a nurse or 42 and not a nurse.