Older nanny

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:What do her most recent references say?

She has excellent references but they did mention she's not able to lift very heavy objects/children.

I think we will give her a chance. If she were mid-60s, I wouldn't even hesitate, but someone in their early 70s unfortunately has a higher risk of stroke or cardiac event; this isn't ageism, it's just stats. Generally, I would much prefer a senior nanny to a younger one, and I agree we treat our senior population in ways that are totally counter productive for society. They hold so much knowledge, experience, and wisdom.

Good move, OP! Congratulations!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:What do her most recent references say?

She has excellent references but they did mention she's not able to lift very heavy objects/children.

I think we will give her a chance. If she were mid-60s, I wouldn't even hesitate, but someone in their early 70s unfortunately has a higher risk of stroke or cardiac event; this isn't ageism, it's just stats. Generally, I would much prefer a senior nanny to a younger one, and I agree we treat our senior population in ways that are totally counter productive for society. They hold so much knowledge, experience, and wisdom.

What constitutes “heavy”? Our young nanny can’t lift more than 30 pounds and it hasn’t been an issue.

[Anonymous]

Nanny here in her early 40s. I don't see myself still work past 60 ... I would never hire a nanny in her early 70s.
This has nothing to do with agism, you just want the best for your child and that's it. That lady should do another job.

[Anonymous]

When I told the prospective nannies I interviewed that they would not be permitted to use their phones while on duty, all the under-40 candidates disappeared. I hired a 64-year old. Her interest is the children, not her phone. Been with us for 2 years now. Kids especially love reading with her.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:We interviewed a fantastic nanny but she is in her early 70s. She seems fit but I am still a bit concerned with het ability to run after our toddler as well as about general chances of her having some health issue (esp. stroke etc.).

I'm most interested in hearing from other nannies who have interacted with older nannies on the playground, etc. Would you recommend one?

I would not discriminate based solely on age.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I am fifty-two & am considered one of the “older” Nannies.

It is tough to find families of children w/toddlers who are willing to hire me because they all want a younger, healthier Nanny.

So I understand how unfair it is to not be considered for a position due to the number of candles on my birthday cake.

Yet to be honest - I think a early-70’s provider is a little too old to be chasing a toddler around.
Especially if the workday exceeds four hours or she is expected to take toddler to the park for walks, etc.

On the other hand > I realize that many Grandparents are in this age demographic + help care for their Grandchildren w/zero issue.

Thank you for this. I would not consider you older at all. -OP

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:When I told the prospective nannies I interviewed that they would not be permitted to use their phones while on duty, all the under-40 candidates disappeared. I hired a 64-year old. Her interest is the children, not her phone. Been with us for 2 years now. Kids especially love reading with her.

Amazing. 64 is still young. It's really the mid 70s where it can go either way.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Nanny here in her early 40s. I don't see myself still work past 60 ... I would never hire a nanny in her early 70s.
This has nothing to do with agism, you just want the best for your child and that's it. That lady should do another job.

Thanks.

[Anonymous]

The "better" nanny would usually have more experience. That's what I'd want for my child.