Women who have experienced incarceration often face unique health challenges as they grow older. Researchers at the University of Kansas School of Nursing are conducting a study to better understand how incarceration experiences may affect women's functional health and aging. Functional health refers to a person's ability to perform everyday activities such as walking, balancing, carrying objects, caring for themselves, and participating in activities that are important to them.

We are looking for women age 50 and older who have previously spent time in jail or prison to participate in this important research. What we learn may help guide future programs, services, and policies designed to support women as they age.

Who Is Eligible to Participate?

• Are a woman age 50 years or older
• Have spent at least 6 cumulative months in jail and/or prison
• Speak and understand English
• Are willing to participate in two study visits over 24 months

What do I do?

• Two study visits over a 24-month period
• Seven brief phone or text check-ins (approximately 5–15 minutes each) over the 24-month study period.
• Study visits will be at times and locations that is convenient for you

What Will We Do During the Study Visit?

At each study visit, you will meet with a member of our research team. We will:

• Ask questions about your health and daily activities
• Complete a few surveys about your vision, hearing, memory, and sleep.
• Conduct simple physical activities, such as walking, balancing, and testing hand strength.
• Ask questions about your health history and life experiences.

There are no right or wrong answers. We are interested in learning about your experiences and understanding factors that influence health and aging among women.

What Will We Ask About?

• Physical health and aging
• Daily activities and mobility
• Health care experiences
• Social support and community connections
• Life experiences following incarceration
• Factors that help women maintain health and independence as they age

Compensation

Participants may receive up to $170 for completing all study activities, including study visits and check-ins. Participants will receive $50 for each of the two study visit and $10 for each quarterly check-in (up to 7).

Why Participate?

There are no direct benefits to participating in this study. However, your experiences can help researchers better understand women's health needs and inform future efforts to improve support and services for women aging after incarceration.

Your privacy is important to us. Information collected during the study will be kept confidential to the extent allowed by law. Participation is completely voluntary, and choosing not to participate will not affect any services or benefits you receive.

What Happens Next?

If you complete the interest form, a member of our study team will contact you to answer questions, determine eligibility, and discuss scheduling your first study visit.

Contact us

Email: agelis@kumc.edu
Phone or text: ‪(913) 730-5828