ST. JOSEPH, Missouri (AP) - Missouri's population prisoners age 50 and older has steadily increased over the last decade.
The St. Joseph-News Press reports that according to the Missouri Department of Corrections, the population of inmates over 50 has grown from 10.1 percent in 2004 to 17.5 percent in 2013.
George Lombardi, director of the department, says that prisoners, regardless of age, have a high risk of health issues due to their lifestyle choices, so adequate care must be provided.
Missouri periodically takes bids from private firms to provide health care, and the state currently has a contract that requires the department to pay $12.58 per day per prisoner. The department expects to pay about $146 million this year in expenses.
The rise of the aging population has also led to the introduction of pre-hospice programs, where fellow inmates are selected and trained to assist their ill cellmates.
© Associated Press
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Effingham woman killed Friday in Atchison wreck
One hospitalized, one jailed, after Atchison attack
Atchison man involved in fatal NW MO crash
One injured in Nemaha Co wreck
Rural Horton man arrested on multiple drug charges
Street lights to be discussed at Monday city meeting
Meteorologist Spencer: Geometric Watch means electronic disruptions
Two file to challenge local legislator
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash
USD 430 Board accepts resignations, approves new hires
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Truck fire at CGB facility in Falls City
BC's Pate remembered by students, college family
Flags to fly half staff Wednesday across KS
Moran works for Mayetta veteran's recognition
Contested races in Tuesday Primary Election in Nebraska
Chiefs' Butker named Keynote Speaker for BC Commencement
LATEST STORIES
Commission holds work session on street lights
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Senator Ricketts staff to visit Falls City and Auburn
Richardson County Sheriff provides updates to Commissioners
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash
Marshall Co Commissioner files for re-election