While it’s known that many seniors have to make sacrifices to survive, it turns out that some seniors are even commiting crimes to survive.

Crime by the elderly is on the rise in Japan:

Over one-fifth of Japan’s population of 128 million is now aged 65 and over, and the figure is expected to double by midcentury.

In 2007, the number of elderly caught committing crimes other than traffic violations totaled 48,605, twice that of five years earlier. Thefts such as shoplifting were the most common offenses.

According to the article, factors ranging from lower income and loneliness to an unstable living environment are some of the reasons behind these crimes. It’s even speculated that some of the crimes are committed intentionally in order that they may go to jail and have food and a place to sleep as well as health care.

While society can be conflicted about elderly crime, (i.e. should their circumstances dictate the punishment or should they be held to the same standards as their younger counterparts?) it’s clear that correctional facilities must make changes to accommodate the increased elderly population.

Much like any aging group of people, elderly prisoners needs include safety concerns as well as medical and mental health issues.

Examples of safety needs are grab bars by showers and toilets, non-skid surfaces on floors, adequate lighting and doorways and thresholds to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers.

Many aging inmates require skilled medical and nursing care for both acute and chronic illnesses and some facilities choose to provide this care in special elderly wards, though most prisons weren’t built for these special needs.

Though the practicality of detaining elderly, infirm prisoners is hotly debated in some circles, special housing can protect vulnerable elderly prisoners from the general prison population, which can be mentally and physically stessful, and address their needs to help preserve their human dignity.