Older Friends

JKL33 · Sep 15, 2020

1 hour ago, Sophie Garcia said:

Is that weird if we hangout outside of work?

I am curious what kind of weirdness you are concerned about. You've posted this in the Professionalism subforum--are you worried that this is unprofessional in some way?

It seems like you have a good deal of regard for this person and at least one common interest (if not more), so you probably don't think that just the act of being around her itself is completely awkward. Or...is it something different, like a male/female thing that is making you wonder?

None of the facts you have provided would independently suggest that this is unprofessional or improper.

If it seems better, you could let her know that you'd love to have a mentor such as herself as you begin your nursing career, and continue your relationship in that context...(?)

The only one sort of hidden potential problem I can think of based strictly on what you wrote is:

1 hour ago, Sophie Garcia said:

took me under her wing and is always looking out for me.

This can be a totally appropriate, wonderful and helpful thing or...it can morph into a kind of stifling situation where you need her consultation or approval or direction for every little thing. Young adults do deserve the chance to get out there and figure some things out on their own, and if they are reluctant to do so then their elders should consider taking a step back.

Other than that...tell us what you are really worried about! ?

amoLucia · Sep 15, 2020

I doubt you'll be going out together for clubbing or some rock concert. But I can see you two getting together for some easy shopping, or a lunch/brunch get-together. On a regular basis. And the holidays are always a special time to just cherish just being friends.

Nothing weird about the age difference, IMO.

I'm almost 70 yo, and I think I have a good friendly friendship with a 24 yo CNA who no longer does my case. I really enjoyed her persona. And we keep in touch, altho C19 has been limiting.

By the way, you may wish to change your screen to something more anonymous (if SG is your real name). Ask the mods for help.

MLTBB20 · Sep 15, 2020

If you get along with somebody then what does it matter? You’re 22 years old so you are a legal adult. Stop acting like a high school teenager and grow up.

Littleblackdog, ADN, BSN, RN · Sep 19, 2020

On 9/14/2020 at 9:51 PM, Sophie Garcia said:

Hi. I am a 22 year old Senior nursing student one year away from graduation. I worked as a student nurse for the past 2 years at a hospital where I made a great friend but she is 60. She is an RN & one of the most nicest, smartest and caring people I’ve ever met. She has mentored me and took me under her wing and is always looking out for me. I know that may seem like a huge age difference, but she is like a second mom to me. Is that weird if we hangout outside of work?

I am a little puzzled about your asking about this, because I am 67 and have friends that I see/hang out with/ etc/ of all ages, including one 92 year old and a few in their 20's. And, unlike what someone else commented, two of the friends in their 20's and I DID go to a rock concert, LOL! We went to see the Rolling Stones, and they loved that I could give them some history on a band I have been listening to since I was in high school. But yes, of course it's not weird to have a much older friend! I think it's great that you and this individual have such high regard for one another and have become friends. You hang out with your friends, regardless of age. What could be weird about that? Have a great time!

Orca, ADN, ASN, RN · Sep 23, 2020

You are collaborating with a colleague. Nothing unusual about that. Nursing puts together people of all races, religions and age groups. We share a common profession, and the desire to hep others.