The Experience of Reintegration from Prison for Women with Cognitive Disabilities

Reintegration from prison presents specific challenges for women, who face poorer mental health, increased substance use risk, and greater difficulty securing appropriate employment or housing than formerly incarcerated men. These challenges are intensified for women with cognitive disabilities. This study examined the reintegration experiences of three formerly incarcerated women with cognitive disabilities through qualitative interviews with the women and two family members. Participants identified common post-release challenges and offered suggestions for improving support services. The findings reinforce the need for accessible, non-stigmatizing specialist services or better coordination between disability and reintegration services to address the cohort's reintegration needs.