Anxiety Contributes to Physical Health Among Older Adults Who Are Incarcerated in Prison

This study explores links between anxiety and physical health among older adults (aged 45+) incarcerated in Kentucky state prisons. Using secondary data, independent sample t-tests, and hierarchical multiple linear regression, we identify disparities in anxiety and physical health among those with and without self-reported anxiety and the contribution of symptoms of anxiety to physical health in the sample. Findings show individuals with self-reported anxiety experienced increased impairment in daily activities, multimorbidity, and decreased physical health-related quality of life. Older adults are a large and growing proportion of prison populations, and addressing anxiety may improve physical health and reduce related costs.