Older Nursing Students

Published

I am 50 years old and I am doing my prerequisites. I will be 51 if I get into the nursing program and 52 when I become a LPN. I took care of my mother for 10 years until she passed away in August of 2010 and I decided to go for my LPN. Am I Crazy or should I go for it.

Anyone else did this and was successful?

I am 46 and I finish in August. My study buddy (also finishing in August) is 63. It's definitely not too late.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in BS, BSN, RN, PHN.

I will be 49 when I start the RN program in August. I was 46 when I started my prerequisites 3 years ago....You're never too old to pursue your goals!

Best wishes to you!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Had my B.S. in another field for many years before going into nursing. I started nursing school at 38 and became an RN at 40. I am 3 years into being an RN and know this is what I am meant to do. NOT CRAZY AT ALL!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Another old lady here... I just turned 45, and I'll finish my LPN program just after I turn 46, and my RN program at about age 47. :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in L&D; Post-Op Med/Surg.

Not wanting to be the Grinch here, & I completely do not agree because I myself am 40 & just started nursing last year. But, graduated with the sweetest, kindest, most intelligent woman who is 54. Her & I interviewed for every position available including the same internship I got & she did not. She helped all of us make it through nursing school & is a fantastic RN! After half a year and countless interviews she finally got a job as an RN. Unfortunately the hospital was unsafe, she had to file Safe Harbor twice, & ultimately quit before something irreversible happened. She has had to go back to dental assistant to make ends meet while still trying to find a job as an RN. I realize everyone interviews differently but you would have to meet her...she makes everyone feel better. There are laws about age discrimination for a reason, but unfortunately it's nearly impossible to prove; however, I am sure that is what is happening to her. All of my classmates, who are younger, have found jobs. Just an FYI, but good luck to you all as I think an "older" employee is highly beneficial in numerous ways.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Bendy, this is something I worry about; I'm 45 and taking my prerequisites. I wonder if anyone will want to hire a 48-year-old newbie nurse when there are so many 25-year-old ones with just as much education and training as I have. Add that to the fact that I've just learned (thanks to this site!) that there really is no nursing shortage, and I'm wondering if I made the right decision after all. :unsure:

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Look at it this way-you will have to work at least 15-20 more years right? Well I'd rather be doing something I love-

I'll be in my 40's before I finish-and I really don't care. Go for it!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I can see how we also have to be practical. That there is age discrimination for all fields not just nursing. So I guess we should be aware of it, and find ways around it. Otherwise, what choice do we have.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

hi i am 61 years old and going into the 3rd semester of the nursing program. I personally think there are many benefits to hiring an older new nurse.My teachers are younger than I am and Im sure are wondering why I am there.BUt you definitely go for it. I know I will make a great nurse,yes memorizing is a little harder and I take a little longer to learn things,but I did that when I was 20 so nothing much has changed.Dont let anyone talk you out of it. We are getting older no matter what so why not,so glad to hear Im not the only one

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Hospice.
hi i am 61 years old and going into the 3rd semester of the nursing program. I personally think there are many benefits to hiring an older new nurse.My teachers are younger than I am and Im sure are wondering why I am there.BUt you definitely go for it. I know I will make a great nurse,yes memorizing is a little harder and I take a little longer to learn things,but I did that when I was 20 so nothing much has changed.Dont let anyone talk you out of it. We are getting older no matter what so why not,so glad to hear Im not the only one

You are my idol.:)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

thanks lori, i think we should have a special page just for older students,so we can help and encourage each other.my attitude about getting hired is,never listen to what "they say".whoever they are. If i had listened to them I would not of done all the great things I got to do. I love patient care and from my clinicals really see the need for compassionate nurses.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Hospice.
thanks lori, i think we should have a special page just for older students,so we can help and encourage each other.my attitude about getting hired is,never listen to what "they say".whoever they are. If i had listened to them I would not of done all the great things I got to do. I love patient care and from my clinicals really see the need for compassionate nurses.

There is a 30+ thread on here too. I am 49 and will be 50 when I start ADN school in August. Then, it's on to my BSN and my trauma cert! Why the heck not!!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion