Navigating re-entry with older adults using ecosystems perspective and the eco-map

Abstract

Currently, the population of older adults is growing at a rapid rate. The number of older adults in America is similarly represented in the justice system with the number of older adults aged 56 and older accounting for 11.8 percent of the total federal prison population. Older adults in the criminal justice system are at heightened risk for poor health, mental illness, and accelerated aging. For those exiting the carceral system, many older adults may not have community connections to aid in re-entry. Social service providers and community agencies that are tasked with advocating for marginalized populations, empowering clients, and addressing psychosocial problems of older adults, may be uniquely helpful in the re-entry process. Guided by ecological systems theory, this article presents the eco-map tool for social service professionals (e.g., social workers, probation officers) to use in tandem with eco-systems perspective. Using this tool in collaboration with older adult clients may assist with re-entry. Furthermore, social service providers can use this to navigate complex relationships within the community and society at large. Finally, the use of this tool may assist with facilitating comprehensive support and wrap-around services for older adults.