Can it ever be too late?

This thread really cheered me up. It's heartening to hear from all the contributors who have achievements and advice to share. We don't turn into silly old duffers when we hit 60, as the young doctor's receptionist who patronised me yesterday seemed to think!

That sounds like a good idea downtoearth. Come to think of it I once went to a wine tasting evening at a wine wholesalers (maybe Majestic?). It was rather fascinating trying different wines with different foods. The staff had all travelled to visit vineyards. Thank you for reminding me!

Molly, I retired at 58 to look after my mum after my dad died, as she had Alzheimer's. She passed away 5 years later. I was offered a job when I was 65, which was 3 years ago. I was then offered a team leader role early this year at 68 and I am still enjoying working. I think older people have a lot to offer, they are reliable and adaptable and contribute to any team. I continue to take any opportunity to learn new things and some of the young people in the small team I work in are wonderful and we complement each other well.

A number of possible new careers spring to mind: counsellor, therapist of some kind, fitness coach etc - all things in which you can be your own boss and not have to tackle agist recruiters
My husband has returned to uni in his 50s and after doing very well in his masters got funding to do a Phd against a lot of competition.
The other day i explained this to a retired engineer. "Oh!" he pronounced, looking down at me, "He must be a mature student! A VERY mature student"
What a charmer, eh?

it is never too late at 60yrs I decided to try learning French at 61 yrs I sold my house and belongings packed 2 dogs and eldest daughter in car and moved to france where we travelled all over, renting properties. it was the best time of my life and I don't regret one single moment although I am now back in uk and housebound I will always have the memories of a wonderful time and truly kind people

Matella I like wine but I am not an expert,I know the wine that I like and how my taste has changed,the label tells its story of vineyard and grapeand strength ,and age,I would just like to know more,there are so many interesting names,and stories behind them,and I found the conversation I had very interesting,and would like to know more

Its smashing that so many of you can show me why its never too late. I'm full of admiration. And thank you for the suggestions and advice.

mollie It really isn't too late! Sit down with a blank sheet of paper or open a new doc on the computer. Jot down a list of your existing skills and qualifications. Start another list of what you are really interested in, and what skills or qualifications you think they would need. List your previous jobs and work areas, and connect all the lists wherever you can. It may help you to identify where you already have experience that may set you on your way - it's called APL, accreditation of prior learning such as here
I became CEO of a medium sized charity at 58, with relevant experience and various qualifications, all of which were supportive but not specific, iyswim. Good luck, just go for it!

Well, there is the saying if you don't use it you will loose it! Some of us have to do training courses when in work for work. Maybe it would be nice to do a course on a hobby at any time of life at any age. An older person will be learning because they want to, a young person will be learning because they have too!

I'm another who recently completed my doctorate in my 60s, having previously done a couple of MAs, some 40 years after my first degree.

Never too late. I read that more retired people are now taking out student loans to study at university and that they will never have to pay off their loans because they won't live and work long enough to do so! I say give it a go, nothing ventured .....................

When I was studying horticulture there was a floristry course which ran for three terms (one day a week) The students were mostly women in their fifties who were too young to retire but wanted a change of direction.

Some of them were very talented and I often wonder if they went on to run successful businesses - in fact I would love to grow for a local florist. I have all the resources and the expertise so I contacted the college but sadly they no longer runs the course.

DD trained as a florist when she lived in Northern Ireland but her full-time job is now too demanding for her to take it up again.

DH just thinks I'm for of big ideas!

Just think you will probably live to be mid 80's, if you are fit you could work or volunteer for another 20+ years. One option is, if you have a hobby you love, you could try to develop it, go on some courses etc and maybe start a business based on it. It's never too late.

It's never too late. I am 67 and after a lifetime of writing, I had three books published in the last year, "House of Shadows" as Misha M Herwin and an erotic novel, as Kate Dennis and "Clear Gold" a YA novel as Misha Herwin.

Now I'm working on "Slipping Through the Net" which is the story of three women in their fifties who through force of circumstances have to re-invent themselves, go out there and earn a living. Successfully of course.

I did anatomy and physiology and qualified as massage Therapist 5 years ago was 55 wish did it years ago as. Low with oh retired do t want clients really enjoyed challenge and buzz of passing with distinction !

Photography isn't something you hear people doing professionally much these days Luckygirl, especially not women. I was interested myself a few years ago and considered doing a course but didn't follow through. Another excellent role model...

sorry ????? Should have been grins!

Downtoearth - do you mind me asking what opportunities a wine merchant's offers? (Apart from the obvious of course ????)

Thankyou mollie

They say an active mum is the best role model for daughters downtoearth and it sounds like you're a great one.

The OU would be interesting but its far too expensive for me now as I have one degree and wouldn't get any additional help.

I suspect a lack of something is holding me back but its more than just thinking I can and I should. But thank you for the encouragement and sharing your stories, they're great to read.

I returned to work after a 10 year caring gap and undertook two NVQ qualifications aged 60,I left after completing due to amount of hours expected,I then trained for a voluntary role with ongoing training,so if you are able go for it.
I am nearly 63 and looking for something new to learn,had an interesting conversation with a wine merchant,am thinking this could be it.
My achievments may only be small, but they are MY acheivments,and I am proud of them and it keeps the brain active and creates openings and opportunities for other interests..

I jumped ship from my career when I was 50 and retrained as a photographer. I then worked freelance as a photographer and as picture editor for a magazine.

If I were 58 and fit I would not hesitate to try out something new.

Interestingly, one of the spin-offs of that decision is that my DDs all feel that they could have a go at anything at any age.

Check out what courses are available locally. The OU has a huge number of courses in modules to build up to a degree....
Its never too late. I completed my doctorate at 56 (not OU though)

It sounds like you have lack of confidence, rather than lack of health and ability.

I think your SIL is right, and you should go for it. Do you have anything to lose at all?

sixty is one things --- grr, I meant sixty-somethings!