Would I be considered too old at 30?

[080472]

I am currently working as a secretary and am considering a career change. Physiotherapy is something which appeals and interests me. I am currently looking after my mother who has a spinal tumor and has lost her mobility. Would that be considered as experience by uni's? What is the degree course like? Any help appreciated Alison

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[perfphysio]

Mature age entry is welcomed in many countries, and 30 is definately to old. The main issues are the volume of work and financial support during the study. in Australia this is a 4 year minimum commitment. The govt. can provide assistance and you will need it. About the only thing to mention is that the course is hard!! It would b beneficial to consider taking another relevant course to ease you into the concept of studying again after a long break. Starting a B.A in Science would be a great start which would assist you should you chose to transfer to physio in your country, which by the way is where? regards richard

[quynh2]

NO WAY is 30 too old for anything!!! That's the prime time of life for women! If you want it, go for it! But to be honest, there is alot of study so your current situation might make it hard. But nothing is impossible (just can be terribly difficult) & you never know, your situation may change & then you could feasibly do it. And you might surprise yourself & find you ROCK at physio!

[MrPhysio+]

Hi 080472,
I began my Physiotherapy training aged 28 as a special entry student (one that had not studied for 5 years and previously not having completed year 12 level in secondary school). Despite having difficulty with exams, the reason for leaving school in year 10, and taking 7 years to complete the four year course some of which was done part time, I completed the course.
Difficult? Very, but mainly because I do not compromise and encountered exam and institutional difficulties when some individuals did not like being questioned regarding their well identified failures to run the course according to accepted educational principles and fairness. I was proved correct but was delayed in my progression by three years! The cost of saying I told you so was very great, but the reward of improving the course for everyone and the profession was greater!

I have now been a Physio for over 22 years and the rewards continue, with the respect from patients and other therapists motivating continued work in this area of health.

Be aware that the course can be more difficult for some than others. Either way you may need support from family to succeed. Look back over your life - have you always been involved in helping people and been complemented for doing so? Do you have a strong drive to understand health, thge human body and psychology? If so, proceed to speaking with therapists you know and attend open days at training institutions. Be very aware that you will be exposed to numerous experiences that will challenge you and any preconceived ideas you may have of health professionals, unwell patients and government funding agencies. You will have your resolve tested over and over again, not just as a student but also as a qualified practitioner. You nwill actually start your real learning after you qualify - the initial study is primarily designed to teach you how to think in a scientific way with a little emphasis upon the chosen subject.

Should you chose to go down the physio path, I wish you well. Never be afraid to ask for help. This forum is a good resource.

There are no stupid questions, just stupid answers. Also, if you are brave enough to ask a question, it is wise to remember that there is likely to be a number of others grateful of your question because they also want to know but were too timid to ask.

I am very pleased to be a Physiotherapist despite the low monetary reward, hard work and irritation to my own joints from manual therapy.
May the force )physio resource world) be with you.
MrPhysio+