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Surge in Elderly Prisoners Poses Challenges for Nation’s Prisons

An increase in elderly inmates will not only require a larger percentage of the federal budget, but specialized training for COs as well

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By Michael Pittaro
InPublicSafety.com

Prisons are, in many respects, a microcosm of society. In 2030, the last baby boomer will turn 65 and one-in-five Americans will be older than 65. This aging population is also represented within the nation’s prisons system.

A comprehensive 2014 study by the Urban Institute found that the number of prisoners age 50 or older experienced a 330 percent increase from 1994 to 2011. The study examined the growth patterns in the largest correctional system in the United States, the Federal Bureau of Prisons. This study concluded that the growth rate of older prisoners—especially those 65 and older—is expected to increase significantly.

This increase in elderly prisoners will not only consume a considerable percentage of the federal prison budget, but it will also require that correctional officers receive training about how to care for and protect elderly prisoners.

Full story: Surge in Elderly Prisoners Poses Challenges for Nation’s Prisons

In Public Safety is an American Military University (AMU) sponsored blog that features analysis and commentary on issues relating to law enforcement, emergency management, fire services and national intelligence. This blog features in-depth discussions authored by leading experts with decades of experience in their field.

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