Is 46 to old for LVN program and worth it?

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I am 46 years old and looking to start my second career as I have always wanted to be a nurse but life got in the way. Now that my kids are all grown I’m looking to finish my dream. I finished all my pre req and got my associates degree but living in California all the ADN programs are so impacted where I live and I cannot afford to keep applying and can’t afford to not work for two years at this time. I really want to get my foot in the door and I hear mixed reviews on LVNs. I know it’s a bit of money but at least I can get in now and start a career in the field I want then later go for BSN. I guess I’m just curious is 46 to old to go to LVN and is it a good step ??? Any older nurses out there with advise. 

Specializes in no nursing experience, potential career changer.

Sounds like wherever you live is an attractive place for a nursing student to be! And congrats on almost graduating, by the way. 

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Specializes in PDN, Group home,School nurse,SNF,Wellness clinic.

Get your RN

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Specializes in Respiratory Therapist.

You're never too old! Get that LVN degree! 

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You're not too old. You can do it! I am also in Southern California and starting my LVN program in my 40's. I figure as long as we don't die, we'll be 50 soon whether we are a nurse or not. Might as well be a 50 year old nurse if that is your dream.
My advice is to try to go the community college route. If you go private, at least take your pre-reqs at community college. That way you'll avoid headaches if you decide to bridge to RN later. 
I have also had a lot of RNs tell me to skip LVN and go straight to RN, but for me the LVN route is more practical. I can start working after just a year and bridge to RN afterwards. It is hard to commit to 2 years of full time school in Southern California when bills are so high.
Good luck to you! You can do it!

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