Am I too old to buy a franchise?

I'm a 56 year old female that has worked in a corporate setting for the past 34 years. I'm in the process of doing my due diligence on a franchise. Except for maternity leaves I was never off for illness, worked in a management role, and was in a high stress envirornment. I'm very concerned that I won't have the physical stamina to be at my peak to run a successful business over the next 10-15 years. Do you have any statistics on how many females over 55 start their own businesses or other advice for me?

Ms. Swanson,

You are in the largest demographic for starting a business! While statistics of cohorts may be comforting, the most important question is, do you love the business of the franchise you are considering? If the answer is no, then no amount of energy and stamina will make it a good way to spend the next 10-15 years of your life. After a lifetime in corporate America, this is your time to live your life to the fullest and on your own terms. Find the business you are passionate about and your energy will be there for you. You are absolutely NOT too old. Good luck!