Those just a few years away from retirement may actually be close to a new career, instead.

According to the new Index of Entreprenuerial Activity, just released by the Kauffman Foundation, near retirees (aged 55-64) represent 23 percent of new entrepreneurs in America. When the study was conducted in 1996, the age group represent 15 percent of new entrepreneurs.

In a press release about the results, David Goldbaum, a retired economist and the founder of Franchise Economics Inc., listed several reasons for the upswing in entrepreneurial interest

1. Retirees live longer than ever.  The average 55-year-old American will live another 30 years, according to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control. The active and health conscious will live significantly longer.  Thirty years is more than enough to build and enjoy a small business.

2. Retirees will stay healthier longer than ever. Advanced medical care and trends in healthy consumption and attitudes have made pre-retirees a highly productive and capable group of Americans. Retirees are ideally suited to operate a business that suits their background and skills and is targeted at their financial goals.

3. Small business ownership is a great way to stay physically active and mentally stimulated. A business matched to the individual's temperament, lifestyle goals, and interests can contribute to physical and mental health.  

4. Many may need the income. This recession has forced so many near retirees into unemployment or early retirement while the decline in home values has significantly reduced nest eggs. The percentage of employees "not at all confident" about having sufficient income for a comfortable retirement grew from 22 percent in 2010 to 27 percent through March 2011, according to the Employee Benefits Research Institute's Retirement Confidence Survey. A small business may be just the right approach for income shortfalls provided there is enough available for the initial investment including working capital.

5. Franchise businesses make it easier to get started. Retirees won’t have to start from scratch and can reduce the risks involved in any business startup by taking a franchise approach to business ownership. With so many successful corporations turning to franchising their businesses, there are franchise opportunities in almost every industry and market.

6. Communities really benefit. Near retirees and retirees that bring decades of business experience to a community contribute to the economic welfare of the entire community by providing services and often employment opportunities for others.  It is a great way to contribute.