The increasing number of adults aged 55 and over within the criminal justice system poses unique challenges and necessitates targeted interventions. A recent GAINS Center’s webinar, “Responding to a Growing Demographic: Supporting Older Adult Populations within the Criminal Justice System,” shed light on this pressing issue, revealing that the United States’s demographic shift towards an aging population is mirrored within the criminal legal system. By 2030, it is estimated that a third of all incarcerated individuals will be over 55, highlighting the need for specialized care and support for this population.
Here are the top 10 takeaways from the webinar:
Rapid Demographic Shifts: The aging of the U.S. population is reflected in the carceral system, with older adults facing distinct medical, mental health, and social challenges.
Increased Arrests Among Older Adults: Not only has the general population aged, but arrests among older adults have also increased, further contributing to this population’s growing numbers in the criminal justice system.
Complex Health Needs: Older adults who are incarcerated may often present with a combination of infectious diseases, chronic conditions, and physical mobility needs requiring comprehensive medical and social care.
The Challenge of Reentry: Reintegrating into society poses significant hurdles for older adults, particularly in relation to housing, healthcare, and social support.
Educational Limitations Among Practitioners: There is a pressing need for criminal legal and healthcare professionals to understand the unique needs of aging individuals in the system.
The Importance of Peer Support: Initiatives leveraging the support of peers within the criminal justice system show promise for improving outcomes for older adults.
Ethical and Human Rights Considerations: The care and treatment of older adults in the criminal legal system raise significant ethical and human rights concerns.
Research and Data Needs: There is a critical need for more research to inform evidence-based practices and policies for this population.
Call to Action for Comprehensive Support: Vested partners across the criminal legal and healthcare systems are encouraged to collaborate on developing comprehensive support mechanisms for older adults.
This webinar serves as a call to action, urging practitioners, policymakers, and researchers to address the unique challenges faced by older adults within the criminal legal system. For a deeper understanding of these issues and to explore potential strategies for support and intervention, viewers are encouraged to watch the full webinar.
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This blog post was developed with the assistance of generative artificial intelligence.