I want to be a nurse
At 45 years old… is it too late for me to become a nurse? Would I even get hired if I finish all the training and get my certifications and licenses. I really feel strong and passionate enough to go for it and I’m willing to work hard, but do you think anyone will hire me at such a late age? Any working nurses in my age range in the neighborhood able to shed some light or advice on my goal?
My wife and I have been married 38 years. We met very young and she was about to start nursing school but decided to be a stay at home Mom. At 36 I suggested she do it as I was worried about empty nest. I told her it was really so I could drop my life insurance because I didn't want some other guy spending my money!(Joke for some) Anyway she spent 15 years and was incredible, nominated twice as nurse of year out of 4000. She started at base in Alz unit & moved into telemetry. Unfortunately, almost 4 years ago she was diagnosed with early on ALZ. You will always be able to find work and develop in your direction. Don't forget, the largest generation in the History of the country have already started and it's anticipated over the next 10 years, there will be a reduction of physicians by 25%. Only negative is all your Hospitals and Healthcare groups are conglomerating which is really pushing the limits on what a great nurse, who cold give great care, but is diminishing because they're being given more patients. Best of Luck!
I am 47 I started as an can then an Ram I have had a job in nursing working with people with alzheimers. In all my years in nursing I've come to find employers white more reliable hated working people. The field of nursing is not determined for young or old its for the people with compassion drive people who take initiative and can be assertive and smart to problem solve I got my LP at 35 and i am proud to say I am entering nursing school to get my RN in September and,th. Thought hasn't,crossed my mind about age but my willingness to absorb knowledge and to bring me to the table is all I think about cause there is no duplicate. for me and what I can do age is bit a number!!!
I received my RN degree at the age of 44. It has been the best career choice I have ever made. I was hired by some of the best institutions in Boston, MA. Many medical facilities prefer "the mature" nurse over the young new grad. I strongly encourage you to go to nursing school, Marian
I received my RN degree at the age of 44, have been hired by some of the greatest medical centers in Boston, MA and feel it is the best move I ever made. You're never too old. Many institutions prefer "the mature" nurse over the new grad. I strongly encourage you to do it! Marian
Debra: I'm not a nurse, but know of many who are even older than yourself. You can get your LPN in only 1 yr at a local two year college if one is nearby. Or, you can take classes at a local university. But, you have to have strong math and chemistry to do the work.
Look at online courses and talk to nurses who are RN's at local nursing homes, long term care resident places and also in hospitals and clinics if you are seeking this field. Today's 40 something is the new 30! Best wishes
Hi Debra,
Nursing was my second bachelors degree, some of my classmates were in their 40's and 50's for our RN program, they are very successful colleagues of mine, one went on for his Nurse Practitioner degree afterwards. When I was a LPN nursing instructor, some of my students were in their 50's and 60's, mind you some were also 18. Most of my students had job offers before they graduated.
I still get fliers and emails for nursing jobs, even during the times that I wasn't looking for work.
Find a good program that fits your needs and show them what you have to offer. There are many great options out there. If you are well-disciplined you might even consider one of the online schools to start. Do your research and go for it. I'd rather work with a nurse that is passionate about it than the ones that are doing it for the pay.
Good Luck,
James
Hi Debra, If becoming a nurse is your passion, then it is not too late. I went to nursing school as my second bachelors degree. I also was a teacher for licensed practical nurses. Some of my LPN students were in their late 50's, many of them had jobs by the time they graduated. Even now I get fliers and emails of places looking for nurses to hire. If it is your passion, find a nursing program that fits you and make it happen.
Hi Debra, Im 49 and last eve was my first class toward my RN license! I embrace my age, life experience and passion to help others! Join me girl! WE can do this!
Yes it is too late; you could probably be a nurses aide at most; good luck with that though
I and a male classmate did RN school in our 50s. If u r good and work hard, and understand that you have to work when ur scheduled it shouldn't be a problem. We are still working in our 70s.