Correctional systems and health care providers are facing multiple challenges in providing care for an increasing population of older and sicker inmates. The dramatically changing demo-graphics of the incarcerated population mandate greater attention to and understanding of the particular health care and health maintenance needs of older inmates, as well as the ways in which these needs can best be met by U.S. correctional systems and institutions. This article discusses the growth of prison populations and the characteristic of aging and elderly prisoners. The health status and health care of older inmates are addressed, followed by an overview of approaches being implemented in caring for the aging prison population nationwide.
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