This document discusses the growing issue of elderly inmates in American prisons. Due to tougher sentencing laws over the past few decades, the prison population has aged significantly. Now over 10% of inmates are over 55 years old and require more medical care, costing significantly more than younger inmates. As inmates continue aging in prison, questions arise around whether they still pose a threat to society and if compassionate release should be considered. However, victims' families may oppose releases. With tight budgets, prisons struggle to provide adequate healthcare and accommodations for elderly and ill inmates. Some prisons are attempting reforms like special medical units and training inmates to care for the elderly, but challenges around cost, capacity, and compassion remain.