Supporting Older, Frail, and Vulnerable Adult Prisoners Through Peer Care: Observations, Reflections, and Recommendations Based on a UK/U.S. Researcher Exchange Visit

J Correct Health Care. 2024 Apr 29. doi: 10.1089/jchc.23.11.0095. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

This article describes key findings from a UK/U.S. prison health researcher exchange in September 2023. The aims were to increase familiarity with the research context and to observe the roles of peer caregivers in U.S. prison settings. The researchers identified several differences and similarities in peer caregiving between UK and U.S. sites and detail six recommendations related to policy and practice concerning both sides of the Atlantic. It is believed that the adoption of such recommendations will contribute to improved care and, thereby, the health and well-being of vulnerable people incarcerated in prison.

Keywords: older people in prisons; peer caregiving; peer programs; policy; social care.