Burr H, Lange S, Freyer M, Formazin M, Rose U, Nielsen ML, Conway PM. Physical and psychosocial working conditions as predictors of 5-year changes in work ability among 2078 employees in Germany.
Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2022;
95:153-168. [PMID:
34175972 PMCID:
PMC8755707 DOI:
10.1007/s00420-021-01716-9]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To examine 5-year prospective associations between working conditions and work ability among employees in Germany.
METHODS
A cohort study (2011/2012-2017), based on a random sample of employees in employments subject to payment of social contributions aged 31-60 years (Study on Mental Health at Work; S-MGA; N = 2,078), included data on physical and quantitative demands, control (influence, possibilities for development, control over working time), relations (role clarity and leadership quality) and work ability (Work Ability Index, WAI; subscale 'subjective work ability and resources'). Data were analysed using linear regression.
RESULTS
Physical demands and control were associated with small 5-year changes in work ability (ΔR2 = 1%). Among the subgroup of employees with ≥ 25 sickness days, possibilities for development, control and quality of leadership were associated with changes in work ability (ΔR2 = 8%).
CONCLUSIONS
The impact of working conditions on long term changes in work ability seems to be negligible. However, in vulnerable subpopulations experiencing poor health, working conditions may be associated to a larger extent to work ability over this time span.
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