CPR for Kids, from 1 to 92

I'm often asked what are the age limits for learning CPR? There really are none. The ability to perform CPR is based more on body strength than age.

According to studies, children as young as 9 years old can learn and retain CPR skills. It boils down to if they are big enough and strong enough to do an effective chest compression and retain the steps.

As far as being "too old?" Non-sense! You're never too old to learn something new. There is even a modification for hand placement that helps ease arthritic wrist pain. Again, if you have the strength, then your age shouldn't matter. And trying to do something for someone in cardiac arrest is better than nothing at all.

However, performing CPR can become difficult if you have an injury or back, knee, or joint problems, or other physical health problems. A quick check with your physician prior to signing up for a CPR course will help you with those concerns.