PATRICE DOWD, STEPHANIE SCOTT & EMILY LUCAS Aging Behind Bars: Prison Hospice

“Graying” of the Prison Population 1 in 10 inmates in America are serving life sentences. Prisoners age 7-10 years faster than free individuals. 50 is considered elderly in prison populations. prisoners/

Compassionate Alternatives Compassionate Release: Terminally ill prisoners who pose no threat to themselves or society and have family to care for them may be granted compassionate release from prison. Prison Hospice : An end of life care program located in the prison using an interdisciplinary team consisting of doctors, nurses, social workers, family members, and hospice volunteer inmates.

Prison Hospice There are currently 69 known Prison Hospice programs in the United states. Along with medical care, Prison Hospice provides emotional and spiritual support that helps prepare for the end of life. The elements of security and safety within a prison distinguish it from hospice programs in the community. s/CorrectionsQualityGuidelines.pdf

Inmates as Caregivers A large part of prison hospice is the inclusion of inmates as caregivers Dying inmates in prison hospice create a stronger connection with inmate hospice volunteers vs. community volunteers. Inmates in the role of caregivers gain purpose, compassion and are thought to reform through their work in this program. (up to minutę 2)

Cost of Elderly in Prison aging-prisoners/ /

References unnecessary-toll-on-taxpayers/ unnecessary-toll-on-taxpayers/ ualityGuidelines.pdf ualityGuidelines.pdf prisoners/ / prisoners/ / on-prison-health-care-is-exploding-heres-why/ on-prison-health-care-is-exploding-heres-why/