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Abstract: 

Although there is extant research on reentry and community-building for formerly incarcerated populations broadly, less is known about the supports available to the growing numbers of uniquely vulnerable elderly returnees. The present study addresses this gap by studying the social support systems available for older people leaving prison and on parole in New Jersey. Using surveys, the study investigated the willingness of senior centers and other age-specific social service agencies and reentry-based organizations to provide social activities, social capital building programs, and general support for people over 55 leaving prison in New Jersey. The results indicate that not only are there organizations currently providing support services for the 55+ formerly incarcerated population across New Jersey, but that there is a desire among organizations to collaborate, including with parole. The implications of these findings for policy and future research are discussed.

Keywords: Reentry from prison, elderly incarcerated, community building, support for elderly leaving prison, New Jersey incarcerated population

Affiliations:  1: Caldwell University; 2: St. Francis College; 3: John Jay College of Criminal Justice.