“Seniors Are Falling Through the Cracks”: An Exploratory Analysis of Community Support for Older People Leaving Prison

Abstract

Older people (50+) are a growing proportion of the prison population. Upon release from prison, they contend with deteriorating physical and mental health, obtaining housing, work, and navigating modern technology with limited family support. The current study aims to understand what support is available for older people leaving prison in the state of New Jersey. Two minifocus groups were conducted and included representatives from a variety of community-based organizations across the state. Results indicated that older people require a great deal of support leaving prison, but no programs address those needs specifically. Program providers shared the difficulties in supporting this population and their willingness to collaborate across organizations. However, uncertainty about how to connect and roadblocks from superiors stifled respondents’ efforts. Weighty guidance and creativity were necessary to provide support. Directions for future research and actionable recommendations are discussed.

Keywords

prisons corrections reentry aging community support service providers

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