Looking at LVN program at 46

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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. 
 

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Hi! I just completed an LPN program and our class ages ranged from 21-50 ...many of them in late 30s. You are at just the right age! My mom had a state job for 25 years and at age 50 changed careers and was much happier. I think LVN/LPN is a great first step because schooling is not very long and then you start out making good money. Where I'm living, I will be starting out making $26-$27.50 an hour. I'm going to get really good experience as an LPN before going into the bridge program to be an RN. Another good reason to start with LPN is to see if you even like nursing before you go further. I hope this helps!

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I was a stay-at-home mom who started working on my ADN at the age of 51. Fast forward to now, at age 60 I am halfway through my MSN Educator and have been a PN clinical instructor for 5 months.

It's never too late if it's something you really want and something you can afford.

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Specializes in Currently a Dental Assistant.

Hi there! I am in the same situation. I am 45 this month and getting ready to start! I have wanted to do this since I was 30 - and like you, life got in the way. I still have a 7 year old -- my oldest is 20 and I also have a 15 year old. Good times. I chose a private school because ill be 80 before I get into the local CC. There are sooooo many youngins applying and I truly believe there is a preference to the younger student. SO -- im too old to wait any more. Good luck to you!!!  ? ?

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I really loved reading these posts! I am 37 and will be starting an LPN program in the fall! It is so true that it's never too late! Congrats to everyone!

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Peace and Blessings,

I am 46 and will be starting the LPN program next month.

Go For It !

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Thank you for all the replies. I am also going to start LVN program next month. Super excited to finally get my 2nd dream career started off, a little late but going to finally get it done. 

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Specializes in Cardiac.

To all of you...Go for it! I wasn't the only old lady in my RN class (42) ? Half my class was older ladies and gents. I did have the young whipper snappers as well but I felt that it really rounded out the class's. You were able to interact with those that could have been your kids, and learn from them as much as they will learn from you.  Study groups were fun, and interactive. Different perspectives across generations was not only informative, but helped you navigate those soft skills that you will need as a nurse.  Do not let age define what you want, go get it!

P.S. one of the best nurses I know was an executive secretary of the Arch Bishop for 25+ years, and went back to school to obtain her RN at the age of 54 ? Ya'll got this! 

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I know this is an old post but I am 57 and looking into getting into an LVN program in the fall. I have been conflicted about going back to school at my age but this post made me feel hopeful. 🙂

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Specializes in Med-Surg.
Dlynx said:

I know this is an old post but I am 57 and looking into getting into an LVN program in the fall. I have been conflicted about going back to school at my age but this post made me feel hopeful. 🙂

Age doesn't matter. I was 45 when I received the RN, 49 when I received the BSN, and 56 when I received the MSN. Now at age 59, I'm three months into a DNP program. If it's what you want, go get it!😎

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45 year old considering doing the LPN or RN program. I always wanted to be a nurse... I attempted in my late 20's and got discouraged when I didn't get accepted into the nursing program. But I'm pushing through this time, in jesus name 🙏🏽

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Specializes in LMT/CLT/PN Nursing Student.
Dlynx said:

I know this is an old post but I am 57 and looking into getting into an LVN program in the fall. I have been conflicted about going back to school at my age but this post made me feel hopeful. 🙂

Hello! I am 57 yrs old and am more than 1/2 way through the LPN program at the same community college that I received my therapeutic massage degree. I have been a licensed massage therapist for 15 yrs, but felt a calling to get into nursing. The next oldest in my class is 50, so I am the oldest, but you'll get over it quickly because there are quite a few students in their 30's and 40's! You can do it!! 

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