Ford Repair: oil light, oil gauge, ford taurus

Question
I realize this may be a dumb question but I am an old woman that does not know much about cars. What can be some reasons why my oil light is on and stays on? I was told by someone I would have to take it to the Ford company.But that might be expensive just to check it out. I am afraid to drive it like this.Anybody I ask (mechanic that is)says they don't know.Could you at least give me some possible reasons why it is on. I have a Ford Taurus '92.That's all I know. Please help!Thank you in in advance.

Answer
Catherine-

  The two main possibilities would be a loss of oil pressure (whether it's a problem with the oil pump or the engine is just low on oil), or it may just be time for an oil change.  Keep an eye on your oil gauge.  If it's on the low side, I would have it looked at by a shop.  If it's looking ok then I'd simply have the oil changed.  Hope this helps.

Steve