Health optimization of older people in prison

This article examines the leadership challenges of prison healthcare, specifically focusing on the ageing inmate population. It highlights the distinct health burdens faced by this demographic, including higher disease prevalence and an accelerated ageing process. The concept of prison activities of daily living is central to addressing these challenges, emphasizing the need to tailor health assessments and care plans to the unique prisoner-environment interactions. This article advocates for inclusive person-centred care. It suggests that involving older prisoners in their care planning, aligned with the “ageing in the right place” principle, can significantly improve their quality of life. Additionally, it explores strategies to combat social isolation and loneliness among older prisoners, such as intergenerational activities and prison-community partnerships. Health leaders can echo these findings in policy development and incorporate collaborative, inclusive, diverse, and intergenerational models that address the complex health needs of older prisoners.