Starting PTA school at 51???

[1178]

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Hi,
Sorry this is sort of a cross-post. I am considering starting PTA school at 51, is that generally way to late? Would someone hire s rookie at this advanced age??

 

[Azimuthal]

Shouldn't be a problem as long as the physical demands are met. It's a great career field.

 

[DesertPT]

If it's what will make you happy, go for it! We have two people in my class in their 40's. And since it's not 7 years of school like a DPT, you could easily work for 15 years after you graduate, provided your physical condition is adequate. And your debt for getting an associates should be minimal. Just realize that it is a profession that can mean heaving and hoeing a lot of bodies around, and putting your body in a wide variety of positions, depending on what setting you work in. Generally outpatient will probably be easier on your body than inpatient. If you haven't, maybe try to shadow a couple of PTAs or even PTs in an inpatient and outpatient setting of some kind to get an idea of what you'd be getting yourself into. Best of luck 🙂

 

[davidtheusername]

Obviously, it's a different field, but I have a friend that did nursing school at a similar age and starting at that age wasn't a problem at all. He's very happy with it and had no trouble finding a job. I'd assume similarly for PTA. I'd be hesitant to start a doctorate in physical therapy at the age because of time and debt, but PTA sounds like a great idea. You'd just have to be a little pickier about choosing a job that your body can handle for the next 15 years than a 25 year old would.