1. Look for an industry that will truly engage you.

It's especially important for burnt-out corporate refugees. You don't want to sink your sweat and savings into a startup only to find yourself on another treadmill.

2. Understand the income potential and whether it matches your needs, and how much you are comfortable investing. Take a hard-nosed look at startup costs, your local competition, and your willingness to risk your savings.

Take into account the fact that it takes most new businesses at least three years to break even - if they last that long. Later in life is not the time to shoot craps and risk your financial security. It's worth sitting down with a reputable accountant who has worked with lots of startups and who can help you determine how much of a gamble you're willing and able to take.

3. Match the physical demands of your chosen business to your energy level.

A business that requires putting in long hours every day, or hard physical labor, may not suit those 50 and older.

4. If day-to-day variety is important to you, rule out businesses that involve doing the very same thing for each customer.

The idea here is to find something that will keep you passionately interested.

5. Do you love or hate technology?

While most businesses require some computer use, consider the extent to which you'll need to use other technologies - like wireless gadgets, the Internet, and various [types of] software - to help you manage your business. If you hate technology and would rather not bother with it, can you afford to hire technical help?

6. If you find you're drawn to a franchise opportunity, make sure you determine the total expected investment for the first two years.

Be aware that, with a franchise, you will always have a business partner - the franchisor - who takes part of your income.

Proceed with caution when considering a franchise: Talk with others who have bought outlets from the same company; make sure you understand everything the franchisor will expect from you (including how disputes, if any, will be resolved); and hire an attorney who specializes in franchising to explain the franchise agreement to you in detail.