Although explicitly illegal, ageism is a serious barrier to finding work in almost any field. Employers cannot, legally, discriminate based on age, but they have found a slew of euphemisms to avoid saying what the real reason is for not considering the application of an older candidate. Often they will immediately assume that because of your age and experience you wouldn't consider the salary they are willing to offer; sometimes they are concerned about your job longevity - will they go through the expense of bringing you on, training you, and in a couple of years you will be looking towards retirement? By providing a lengthy resume you tell them how old you are right away (so does a degree program graduation date). As I have aged, I've moved to a skill-based resume rather than a chronological one, - this gives me a means of communicating my experience and skills without highlighting the time frame. The suggestion that was posted about speaking to specific goals and plans for the near term (3-5 years, or even less) are a great way to avoid the discussion of long term goals and your age. Good luck!

Tell your interviewer what your specific goals and plan is for the next 3 to 5 years. The average length of time most people stay at a job these days is about two years then they have either set themselves up within the company to promote to the next level or they leave the company to realize new growth potential and glean new experience, knowledge and skills with a new employer. Chronological age is a fact. It's also a state of mind and your level of confidence. Do not let a number define who you are! It doesn't define what kind of nurse you are now and have been in the past.

I though I saw a comment from someone who advised you to let it be known that you have 5 year goals...but it's gone. pfff! Anyway, it was a great idea! Since you're not getting to interview, you'll have to focus on an OUTSTANDING cover sheet. Put in a couple of sentences about your 5 (or 10) year goals! Include a couple of statements using phrases like: searching for new ways to use my experience, looking for new experiences to assist others with my experience, etc. Plus, if you haven't done so already, apply to other places that hire nurses besides hospitals or nursing homes. All the Home Health Agencies are required to employ nurses, even if just as case managers--plus hospice, drug treatment, psychiatric and other facilities. County Health Departments, also--which are funded by the State you live in. Someone is looking for your experience.