I've been thinking about getting into trucking. I am 63 and have medium level back pain from old injuries, etc. I am now semi retired and thinking about going otr.
My son is currently an tor o/o and he thinks I could do it, as he told me the most strenuous work is the occasional landing gear struggle. So he thinks I could do the work after the initial DOT physical and agility test.
My feeling is that if i disclose back issues I would be disqualified. I have taken prescribed Norco for back pain, but can stop them, not addicted or anything . If they do hair test I have script but would have to disclose past.
Any thoughts from experienced drivers if it is realistic for me to drive, and if I could pass dot and company agility test. I know you have to disclose all medical history, but if I omit info, could attribute to old age!
Back problems and 63 yo.
Discussion in 'Trucking Schools and CDL Training Forum' started by Edjoe, Feb 16, 2018.
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@Chinatown will be along shortly to assist.
Best of luck to you. -
Are you able to sit for hours on end?
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Yes. I can go for about 5 or 6, then need to stretch out. In decent shape, 20 years in military, just want to work a couple more years, then retire for good.
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I've never worked for any trucking company where they required me to take an agility test. The only test that even comes close is part of the DOT physical. Basic stuff like bend touch your toes, etc.
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Guess I'm looking for opinions on dot, drug test,and if realistic job choice.
Can do all agility testing, but next day would be hel l.
63 yo men are not hot prospects in job market. Regardless of experience and training! -
If you have any minor health problems, the schedule of trucking can have some bad problems making them worse. On the back, the seats in the trucks are really nice or at least that would be what I would be looking at, making sure it has the correct support. Sure us older people are not on the top of the list, we are not the quickest in the world anymore, but we can do slow and steady forever.
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You'll be fine as long as you can sit in a seat for 4-5 hours at a time don't think they check for that anyway there more worried about drugs and such, only you will really know if you can handle it try going for a 5 hour drive somewhere in your car if you handle that then you can certainly drive a truck.
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Get a good seat. Heated would be great. Always have air in seat..don't sit on floor let the seat float. Face the cab getting in and out. Start with the basics about back health. Start and maintain a good body core health and strength conditioning. This job will kill your back if you let it. One last word of advise...if u have a belly lose it. It's easier than they make it out to be....low carbs, 30 g a day, lots of protein, meat and nuts, high fats are good as long as they are natural fats like the fat on beef and chicken. No bread or pastries...ever!!! Follow mom's advise and eat your veggies
Enjoy your career
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