Examining the relationship between the encarceration history and the placement of former convicts in nursing homes

The study examines the relationship between the reasons former convicts residing in nursing homes choose these facilities and their criminal history. The aim is to determine whether there is a connection between the reasons elderly former convicts prefer institutional care and the problems they face after their release. The importance of the study is underscored by the lack of research and studies addressing the issues of individuals at the intersection of these two disadvantaged groups and the increasing social problem these situations represent. In this context, in-depth interviews were conducted using qualitative research methods with 13 elderly former convicts residing in a nursing home. The data obtained from the interviews and observations were analyzed using descriptive analysis methods. The analysis of the collected data revealed that individuals who have been incarcerated generally have low educational levels, have never been married or are divorced, work in jobs that do not require skills or competencies, suffer from economic deprivation, and have unhealthy and weak family relationships. As these individuals age, they face additional problems such as physical activity limitations and worsening health conditions. Entering the aging process with unresolved issues from their time in prison leads these individuals to experience two distinct disadvantaged situations simultaneously. As these individuals suffer from economic and social deprivation, their level of deprivation increases, and those who cannot resolve these issues end up under state protection, moving into nursing homes. The study shows that the problems former convicts face after their release play a significant role in their admission to nursing homes. It has been understood that the inability to solve the social problems that arise and may arise at every stage of their lives brings along different issues. Therefore, social service interventions aimed at addressing the problems of former convicts before, during, and after imprisonment, improving their socio-economic status, strengthening family relationships, and reintegrating them into society are predicted to reduce the problems they may face in their old age.