NCJ Number
116773
Journal
Journal of Offender Counseling, Services and Rehabilitation Volume: 13 Issue: 2 Dated: special issue (1989) Pages: 175-191
Date Published
1989
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This study examined the impact of the relocation of 52 older (over 50 years old) male inmates from a very large, open block, age-integrated prison facility to a smaller, age-segregated facility in Michigan.
Abstract
In contrast to conditions at the large facility, the older inmates were housed in smaller units with more privacy and greater inmate control over the environment (e.g., control of windows, radiators). A fenced yard adjacent to the building housing the older inmates was for their exclusive use; dayrooms, with pool tables and televisions were provided on each floor; and laundry facilities for inmate use were available in the building. A comparison of data for before and after the relocation indicates that while there was an increase in health care demands following the move, all other indicators of inmate welfare and satisfaction improved. Of men, 69 percent experienced an improvement in mood level, 25 percent experienced fewer incidents or confrontations, 36 percent reported having a good friend (none reported this prior to the move), and 75 percent were more satisfied generally after the move. Inmates also reported a significant improvement in the food and some improvement in relationships with others and satisfaction with the room/ward climate and with privacy. Among improvements noted by inmates were being with similarly aged men, the quieter and cleaner environment, and greater feelings of safety. 4 charts, 1 table, and 9 references.