How do I begin to get out of debt and start saving for retirement?

I'm in my early fifties, havent got a job. Am studying toward my phlebotomy certificate and real-estate investing. Me and my husband used to own three businesses at one time back in the '90's. He got caught up in two child support orders, which completely destroyed us financially. I went back to school to become an R.N. but I found things in the field I didnt like. Now I'm onto studying phlebotomy. My husband has had cancer that has debilitated him for 5 years now, so he is no longer in the work force, he can barely help himself on a day to day basis, so everything is left up to me now. I feel hopelessly lost because we have never been able to recover from this financial ruin. We have no savings, we just live day-to day.
I just completed my general studies two year degree at a college, and then was supposed to go onto nursing school, but I got turned off. Now I have to quickly decide how to get us back on our feet.We have been dealing with these problems since 1993. I plan to get B.A

At your age, it is very important that you make the correct decisions soon. There will be a time when the two of you can no longer work because you are old or sick... it is important that you correct your situation so you will still be able to get by.

First I would recommend cutting back on all of your expenses. Try to cut your housing expense. If you have a home, sell it. Move into a low-cost apartment. If you have a new car, sell it. Find a car that has a low monthly expense.

Get a night job. Work an extra couple nights per week. Don't eat out at restaurants, don't buy new clothes.

None of these ideas are fun, but they are very necessary in your situation.

Once you make these changes, then call a financial advisor and get your savings in gear.

Start listening to Dave Ramsey on the radio. Check out his website to find more helpful free information and find a local radio station near you. You are never too old. You can do it. He can help.

Good question, wish I had all the answers. There is a group that you can join ...Budget 101.com ask your questions on there & you will receive all kinds of replies from people telling you how they did it or ways to save money.

I agree with Melissa. Dave Ramsey is the best. You can also visit his website at: www.daveramsey.com for more information. Best of luck to you.

Phlebotomoy, real estate investing, nursing? I think that at your age, being the sole provider for your family, you should consider making a decision, and getting a job soon. Do you need a B.A., or can you get a well paying job as a technician in the medical field with a two year degree? Can you afford to get deeper in debt from student loans at this point in your life? I am sure you have many options, but if I were you I would get a job and work on paying off my debt, then go back to school for my B.A. when I was more financially stable. I would also suggest looking into disability benefits for your husband if you haven't already. For financial advise, I like Suze Orman. She has a show on CNBC Saturday nights, a column on Yahoo Finance, and several books and PBS specials.