This document discusses several special populations that pose challenges within the corrections system, including elderly prisoners, prisoners with HIV/AIDS, mentally ill prisoners, long-term prisoners, and sexual minority inmates. It outlines some of the unique needs of these populations as well as approaches prisons have taken to address their needs, such as housing accommodations, medical care, segregation policies, and rehabilitation programs. It also raises discussion questions about balancing safety, treatment and cost when caring for these special needs populations in correctional facilities.