Start nursing school at 59?

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Dear Nurse Beth,

I just turned 59 and I am thinking of starting school to get my AS in Nursing. I think I can do it in about 50 credit hours, I already have an AA degree plus I was working on my BS in Medical Lab Technology. I stopped in going to school in 2016, I only have around 50 more credit hours for the BS. Will I be able to get a job, I was wanting to work in the Assisted Living Facilities, Long Term Care Facilities and with the Nursing Home Care Agencies.

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7 Answers

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Dear Just Turned 59,

Yes, an RN with an associate's degree (ADN) probably will be able to find work in a sub-acute setting. 

The program itself takes 2 years, it's not self-paced. This is after you complete prerequisites, such as anatomy, Microbiology, and physiology. Check out nursing prerequisites at the colleges you are considering.

If you were to start a nursing program 2 years from today, you'll be 63 when you graduate. Not impossible, but it's definitely on the older end of the spectrum to start nursing. 

Best wishes with your decision,

Nurse Beth

Depending on how long ago you took those prerequisites, they may not “count.”  Often, there’s a time limit on courses, often 5 years.  Also, you likely will not be able to work during the nursing program. Do you want to live off savings or take out loans for a degree you will use for just a couple years before retirement?  Will the anticipated salary be worth the change to nursing?

Do you have any healthcare experience?  A lot of people idealize nursing. In reality, it’s a hard job — physically, mentally and emotionally. A high percentage of nurses leave the profession within 2 years and nursing has one of the highest rates of addiction. 

There’s nothing wrong with following your dreams, but do it with your eyes open.  

I had several classmates in my nursing school that were older and they've made phenomenal nurses!

Specializes in NICU, ICU, PICU, Academia.

I just graduated a 62 year old who had no previous healthcare experience. He was an awesome student and brought a lot to the table. 

OP: If assisted living and such is your goal- an LPN program will get you there faster. Those sub-acute facilities employ a far greater percentage of LPNs than RNs. 

Specializes in Critical Care, Coaching.

To anyone trying to do this at an older age I would encourage you to consider the cost. You can definitely become a nurse but at what cost? If you retire in 5-10 years you should calculate any debt you would have to pay off and make enough money to be worth it.

A coworker of mine has a mom still working at 70 so it's definitely possible! Good luck!

Specializes in not sure.

Dear Nurse Beth                                                                                                        I have already passed Microbiology,  Anatomy and Physiology 1&2.  I have an AA degree already. 

I am 59 and decided to go nursing school ! How hard is it ?  Making money is not issue. Issue is can I handle it !  I have a lot free time . If I can love to become N.P. If not what ever works for me. Any advice & opinion appreciated! 

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