Several broad social and psychological trends are cited that have caused an older prison population. First, the population as a whole is aging. Second, older people have fast-rising needs and expectations. Third, 'get tough' criminal justice policies have resulted in longer mandatory sentences. Fourth, life inside prisons has been normalized, creating an environment more conducive to long life. Statistics show that older people are committing more serious crimes than in the past. More older people are being sent to prison and more young people are receiving long mandatory sentences. The author predicts that by the year 2000 prisons will have to be equipped to provide gerontological care for many elderly prisoners. This complex care will increase prison costs.