The burden of mental health and somatic disorders among people experiencing incarceration later in life: A 13-year cohort study

Abstract

Background

The growing number of older incarcerated individuals presents unique challenges for prison systems traditionally tailored for younger, healthier populations. Research on this demographic is crucial for informing effective health and correctional policies.

Method

Using data from the nPRIS-cohort, all people incarcerated at age 50 or older in Norway 2010–2022 were included. Study prevalence for selected disorders were calculated based on ICD-10 diagnoses registered in The Norwegian Patient Registry up until a person's last release date. One-year prevalence was calculated at prison entry each calendar year.

Results

Including 1120 women and 9667 men; 63 % of women and 62 % of men aged 50–64, and 70 % of women and 75 % of men aged 65+ were diagnosed with a somatic disorder. Among women, 63 % (50–64 years) and 49 % (65+ years) had a mental health disorder, as did 53 % and 38 % of the men. There were significant differences in diagnostic prevalence between sex and age groups. Thirty-eight percent of the population had comorbid diagnoses, higher among the youngest women (50–64 year: 46 %). The one-year prevalence of individuals with mental disorders increased from 23 % in 2010 to 34 % in 2022, while the one-year prevalence of communicable and noncommunicable diseases remained consistent over time.

Conclusions

This study presents the first comprehensive description of the mental and somatic health burden of older individuals incarcerated in Norway. Our results underscore the urgent need for correctional and health services to implement tailored interventions that address the unique healthcare requirements of this aging population.