Asking for Beginner EMT Advice

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emtcurious

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Hi, I am asking for anyone's honest opinion... As a 53 year old female in decent physical shape, what is my chance of becoming an EMT.

Am I too old? :huh:Be honest. I can handle it... and thanks! Answers appreciated.
 
Your chance of getting the certification is as high as anyone else, if not higher. You're also just as likely to get hired on by an agency be it volunteer or paid.

The only issue you may have is with some fire agencies who may have age caps for new employees. This may also be true of some municipal EMS agencies, but I have not heard of this (not saying much though).
 
Well, you'll be starting at an age when most people are retiring.
 
Tigger said:
Your chance of getting the certification is as high as anyone else, if not higher. You're also just as likely to get hired on by an agency be it volunteer or paid.

The only issue you may have is with some fire agencies who may have age caps for new employees. This may also be true of some municipal EMS agencies, but I have not heard of this (not saying much though).
Click to expand...

This. I don't think any ambulance companies around me have an age cut off. I know the fire departments do have an age cut off.
 
You shouldn't have a problem. Older students and students with college education seem to do better as far as EMS courses go. I have only anecdotal experience for the first, but there's good published evidence for the latter.

Life experience totally makes you a better provider, I'm entirely convinced.
 
Are you ready to relive your high school years?
 
Thanks for responses!

Thanks very much for the responses. I am encouraged. I believe I have what it takes.
 
I got my Medic card right around my 50th Birthday. If you are in good enough shape to do the job, it shouldn't be an issue.
 
My good friend through medic school is in his upper 50's. And he's not the only one.
 
There was a guy in my EMT class who was in his 60's and he successfully passed the class so I would say that you have as equal chance as anyone else.
 
Passing the class probably wouldn't be a problem as far as age goes, so long as you understand most of your fellow students will be half your age and younger, and it is a hands on class.

If its an issue it will be after the class, assuming you want to work the road as an EMT. How much of an issue will depend on what exactly you mean by decent shape. Can you lift 150 lbs down a couple flights of stairs on a regular basis? Can you load a cot into an ambulance with a 300 plus lb patient on it on a regular basis? Can you do an extremity lift or sheet drag from a chair or couch to a cot on a patient who weighs north of 200 lbs on a regular basis without hurting yourself or your partner?

And finally are you WILLING to do all that for 10 to 11 bucks an hour. This is the reality of working as an EMT.
 
Age isn't directly a factor, but the ability to perform all the tasks you need to do is the question. Lifting, running, skiing if you're lucky.
 
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