Second career, age 49

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I am taking a CNA/NA1 program starting in May, as the beginning of what I hope will be a successful second career for me. Are any of you in your 40's or 50's and newbies in this field?

I may stop with the CNA if I love it but might continue with a Medical Assisting program if I find the direct contact patient care not for me (the bathing, elimination care, etc.). Medical Assisting would allow for more medical office setting possibilities.

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I am 41 and got my CNA certification in December,after doing my clinicals at skilled facilities,I knew there was no way my back would withstand all the lifting that skilled facilities require.I could have easily have done it in my 20's,maybe even 30's but at 41,nope no way!I currently work in an assisted facility,(which I love by the way),but the pay is pretty crappy.I start nursing school next year though,and that is my goal.I'm not sure how much MA's make,surely more than CNA'S I would think.Good Luck!

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Thanks so much, Jitter! Good luck in nursing school! I'm glad you are enjoying your work at the assisted living facility.

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Hello!

I am 38 and I too changed careers by starting as a CNA and now am heading to nursing school. I met a nurse who went back at 50 and absolutely loved her career change! She said you are never too old! I met another nurse who had a 60 year old in her class who worked another 7 years after graduating!

I love being a CNA. Direct patient care can be challenging at times but if you aren't bothered too much with the three P's of CNA/Nursing (poo, puke and pee), you should be fine. Just remember to ALWAYS PROTECT YOUR BACK! I always raise the bed to waist height to turn people or change them. I can really tell when I don't do it so I take those extra few seconds to help me do this for years to come!

Good luck - I think you will really like it!

Brook

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I'm 40 and I am entering the last half of a Medical Assisting Program, with plans to enter into a two-year Invasive Cardiac program afterwards. I switched careers after almost 20 years, so I say go for it, follow your dreams! Good Luck!!!!

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Specializes in Long term care.

I'm 49 and although I've been a CNA for more than 20 yrs I've only been working in a nursing home for about 3 years and I love it.

I was a bit sore at first. It can be a bit tough on the body, but my body adjusted! It's harder adjusting to the constant moving and walking/running rather than the lifting. Where I work, we are required to use mechanical lifts for residents who cannot stand on their own, so there is no "lifting", but there is the pushing and pulling which comes with washing a resident in bed. But if you raise the bed up and use good body mechanics EVERY SINGLE TIME, you will be fine.

In my opinion, if you are already thinking the direct care (personal care) may not be for you, then I'd just skip the CNA training and go for the Medical Assistant training and save yourself some $$$. Direct personal care will be a HUGE part of your job as a CNA.

..just sayin....

People either love it or hate it.

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I have you beat. I am 62 and taking my CNA this summer. I am in APII and need some hands on experience before applying for nursing school. Good luck.

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I have you beat. I am 62 and taking my CNA this summer. I am in APII and need some hands on experience before applying for nursing school. Good luck.

I'm 60, have been a teacher for 30 years and have my Master's degree and am getting my CNA this summer so when I retire I can work at Bon Secours.

Retire in two years.

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Opps posted twice

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I have you beat. I am 62 and taking my CNA this summer. I am in APII and need some hands on experience before applying for nursing school. Good luck.
You're my hero! That would be a dream to be a nurse but I just don't have it in me to go to school for four more years. What are your long term goals I'd love to hear about your plans.
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