The author's mother (not pictured) went to college in her 50s.IPGGutenbergUKLtd/Getty Images/iStockphotoOnce my single mother got a handle on her eating disorder, she decided to go to college in her 50s.She's now a counselor and helps people with substance abuse issues.My mother and I went through treatment together, and I also struggled in college.My mom began her college education at 55 years old, shortly after completing an eating disorder treatment program.As a single mother battling mental health issues, she never had the opportunity to go to college or explore her interests.