Even a few years ago jobs for those with a bit more than a few gray hairs were scarce. Now, everyone is hurting for a job - and semi-retirees are far from an exception. Adding insult to injury, did you know most states have outlawed folks over a certain age from driving (and hence getting a low impact job) altogether?

With gas prices rising and social support wages declining, what is a certain silvery someone to do?

Some of the best options when you're over 50 are delivering papers or pizzas. Of course, delivering papers means you need to be a prompt morning type, but if you can stay up relatively late, then pizza is definitely your gig - and you make pretty good money too.

However, that requires a car, license, and insurance. Not to mention your insurance will go up (if they find out). Don't despair though - there are options for you.

Fortunately, the holiday season means retail stores need more hands. Sure it may be temporary, but maybe you can get something permanent if you perform well. Temp agencies aren't the place to find these jobs though. Just walk into the store and put in an application - and don't be afraid to say "yes" to temp work.

If that doesn't work so well for you, have a look at CraigsList.org. Sometimes you'll land a gig going door to door with fliers, waving at traffic with a silly costume, or something similar - you just have to be quick to respond to these posts.

Of course, when all else fails, see about getting a few Pell Grants and financial aid to snag up a new marketable skill. It's never too late to go back to school. There are even some people who make money going to school thanks to all the help they get.

Good luck!

You can find out more about Patricia Mayo and her other projects at Mayobrains.com or ComHacker.org.