For a retired individual, or couple for that matter, starting a Challenger-based carpet cleaning service in your community and its surrounding areas makes a  lot of sense.

First of all, the lightweight nature of the equipment makes it easy to operate, as well as to move it from place to  place.  The effort needed to clean carpets is about on a par with gardening.

Secondly, as you can read from the other pages of this website, your hourly earnings will be quite attractive.  As an independent business person, you can set your own rates at whatever level you wish.  Jobs generating $75-$100 per hour are not unusual.

Thirdly, operating a local business such as this one will get you out of the house where you will continually meet new neighbors and townspeople.  If you reside in an active retirement community, these people will be more than happy to spread the word about the great service you are able to provide. 

And perhaps most importantly, the regular moderate physical activity, combined with the need to organize your work and occasionally problem solve, will make you a healthier and more more fully engaged member of your community.