Revisiting the Literature on Prisoners who are Older: Are we Wiser?

Abstract

This article critically reviews the scholarly literature that describes older U.S. inmates and that examines correctional responses to this subpopulation of incarcerated offenders. This review indicates that the number of incarcerated men and women who are older is increasing. Older offenders are primarily incarcerated for violent offenses, and many report one or more chronic health conditions. Health care management is the most prevalent theme in the current literature, and there is tremendous variation in how jurisdictions accommodate older inmates. This review of the literature reveals major gaps in our scientific understanding of older inmates, and it concludes with recommendations for policy- and practice-relevant research.