Please, I need answers. I'm 55

[Jewelsy]

I have wanted to be nurse forever. But circumstances got in the way. I read some other threads about age and being older. I feel loke I can do it. I just have some questions about the best way to go about it.

If a person is older, like I am, 55, and wants to become a nurse. Some of the nurses here are saying that it is harder for older people to get a job because of training expenses. So, would it be better to first become a CNA, Then immediately an acute care CNA, then immediately an LVN/LPN. That way we will have alot of hands on experience.

Also, do you all think that at 55, I would be able to get an job as a LVN/LPN and an assisted living/Nursing Home, fairly easy. I would like to become an LVN/LPN and work in an assisted Living/Nursing Home, or even Home Health, Hospice. Does anyone have any advise for me, like what track I should take at my age, I don't really want o become an RN because of the length of schooling and the stress. And it seems it is difficult to find a job.

[jadelpn, LPN, EMT-B]

I would look and see what is available as far as jobs in your area, before you commit to a specific training or certification.

If people are not hiring LPN's, then it wouldn't be of advantage to you.

CNA's in acute care or LTC is physical, sometimes back breaking work. As someone who is just this close to 50, I am not as spry as I would like to be, and especially to be able to do this kind of work. So that is a consideration. AND I am not suggesting people in their 50's can't do the work--I have seen it with my own eyes, just not something I can do at this point in time for hours upon hours every day.

Hospice and home health are both good options, but you should research if they hire new grad LPNs.

Another thought is medical assistant for an MD office, or EMT for an ambulance company. Again, depending on hiring practices of your area.

What did you do prior? Do you have a degree in something else? If so, you could look to your local colleges that may give credit for your degree, and you would just have to do a few classes to become an RN. Or a case manager, or a master's in social work as to do a different aspect of hospice or home health.

Good luck in your endevours!!

[FolksBtrippin, BSN, RN]

OP, I think you are on the right track. At 55, it is not worth the investment to become an RN especially BSN, especially since you want to work in a nursing home.

You can become a CNA in a few weeks. You can start working in a nursing home right away if you want. Then go to lpn school. You will be finished in less than a year.

Go for it.