Too old to become an LPN?

Published

OK, OK. I know that "age should not matter unless you're cheese, therefore we should all have a 'gouda' day" but I am strongly considering entering a local program & on 10/31 will be taking the entrance exam to enter an LPN certificate course starting in 9/2010. I am concerned that if & when I enter I will be by that time aged 57 & even though it's a one-year program that I will by that time be considered too "over-the-hill" to compete.

By profession now I am a CPA but am no longer interested in working in the accounting / tax field on a full-time basis, not that I intend on "tossing" my professional credentials to the wind. I would be hoping that with my many years of experience "doing paperwork" & that I have been a Type-1 / insulin-dependent diabetic in excellent health for almost 43-years now that: (1) Even though as a prospective LPN I know I would be involoved in direct patient care but I've heard comments amoong medical professional that they hate doing "paperwork" & I love it! (2) That all my years as a diabetic & being that I am in excellent health (a "freak" to my endocronologist) that I may have something to "give" to an aging population, many of whom are themselves diabetics.

So what is my question? I suppose this is more of a commentary than a question, but ANY thoughts out-there would be appreciated. Thank-you all for any help, advice, bad puns (other than my own) & hopeful encouragement as I continue to consider this entire matter even though I will still be taking the aforementioned exam in October.

---Bruce.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I, at 47, am in my second semester of nursing school. My classmate just turned 60, and her neice just started LPN school at 58. They gave another friend the boost he needed to make a change out of the job he has disliked for 23 years and begin physical therapy school, at 60. It doesn't matter how old you are, it matters how you intend live your life. Where do you want to be? In a rocker saying should have, could have or would have, or out there doing it?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Operating Room, Long Term Care.

I'm 37 and will be 38 when I graduate with my RN. We have several students who are in their 50's and to tell you the truth they are the best students in the class. Age is just a number. I believe that older students tend to take school more seriously and are more calm and less stressed. If this is what you want go for it. My grandmother went to college in her late 50's and opened a business so I think it great. Your a great role-model for following your dreams. Good Luck!!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I'm 49 and in my first semester, along with several others that are older-than-average students. Like Matilda 123 said, "it doesn't matter how old you are, it matters how you intend to live your life." We're going to age regardless - so the question is are we going to do it with or without a nursing education? I'm not sure who to attribute the quote to, and while I'd argue against some of the points, I totally agree with the sentiment:

“Life is not a journey to the grave with intentions of arriving safely in a pretty well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out and loudly proclaiming ... WOW! What a ride!”

We're never to old - so buckle your seatbelt and go for it!:yeah:

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I lost my job last month as a medical transcriptionist. Been doing that for 32 years! Transcription is a dying field--technology took over. At 52 I am seeking a new career also. Looking at pursuing LPN. It is a bit scary, but I am excited about starting a new chapter in life. Carpe Diem!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

You're not too old!!

I have a law degree - have been practicing law for over 13 years and hate it!! I have always wanted to be a nurse. I have applied for the spring term at a local community college with a joint program at a local hospital. I will be 39 when the term starts - hoping I get in. I know it will be a long haul, b/c I have pre-reqs, but to me, I would always regret not having tried it.

I think down the line you can find a way to make the CPA work for you somehow in combination with nursing.

Good luck to you - go for it! :yeah:

Up Vote Up Vote ×

If you've got the urge, you should do it. You'll always regret it if you don't try.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

hello,

i am in my first semester of nursing school and 58 years young. i will be 60 when i graduate, but heck, i will 60 in 2 years anyway. right?

the only thing i have noticed between me and the younger students as a disadvantage is that i may have to read things a couple of times, or work just a little bit harder. however, the advantages are severe determination and experience in may different areas, all which come in handy when you least expect it.

i say go for it.....:yeah::yeah::D:yeah:

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion