NCJ Number
116771
Journal
Journal of Offender Counseling, Services and Rehabilitation Volume: 13 Issue: 2 Dated: special issue (1989) Pages: 149-160
Date Published
1989
Length
12 pages
Annotation
A social profile of elderly (over age 55) probationers was developed using interview data for a Kansas City (Mo.) sample of 62 such individuals.
Abstract
The sample was composed primarily of traffic offenders (40 percent), with property offenders over-represented (26 percent). Of offenders, 77 percent were male. Interviewees appeared to have a significant degree of stability in their home lives: 76 percent live in a house, 66 percent own their home, and 90 percent have lived many years at the same location. However, their social support were weak, with 42 percent living alone and 34 percent living with just one other person. Of the sample, 61 percent were not married, and 63 percent reported not having seen their siblings over the course of the year. While these people had friends, 60 percent did not belong to any organized group. Mobility was an issue for a large number: 21 percent did not know how to drive, 44 percent did not have a valid driver's license, and 32 percent did not own a car. Overall, 70 percent were concerned over their health or over money. While 48 percent held jobs (67 percent full-time) and 52 percent were retired and received social security, 33 percent of the sample made less than $5,000 in the last year; and 62 percent made less than $7,500. Only 11 percent claimed to have no health problems, and half reported one to four health problems. Arthritis, hypertension, and dental problems were most frequently reported. Finally, 66 percent admitted prior arrests, 76 percent had had legal representation, 67 percent were satisfied with their treatment by police, and 68 percent were satisfied with their treatment by the courts. 10 references.