When older people leave prison, the traditional challenges of reentry are compounded by age, and illness. Older people are more prone to illness, have greater needs for healthcare and health insurance. They may have damaged or broken family ties and thus have doubts about the inability to make changes in their lives or have low levels of life satisfaction. Because many older people lack social capital and have damaged social bonds, reacclimating to society can be isolating. Older people leaving prison also want the opportunity to give back by supporting others through mentorship.
Because older people often have small or no social circles, they want the opportunity to expand their base of friendship and support. There are opportunities for partnership across community, educational, and support organizations to make this happen. There is evidence to support that older people who are socially engaged have better mental, physical, and cognitive health. Therefore, there is an opportunity to improve the likelihood of successful aging and overall well-being in the community among elders. Research conducted by Dr. Murolo and Dr. Lena Campagna aims to build social capital and community services for older people leaving prison. We are thankful to the Borchard Foundation Center on Law and Aging for the generous grant in support of this research.
Angela S. Murolo, PhD 