Physical and psychosocial working conditions as predictors of 5-year changes in work ability among 2078 employees in Germany
Abstract
To examine 5-year prospective associations between working conditions and work ability among employees in Germany. 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. 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%). 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.
- Publication:
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International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health
- Pub Date:
- January 2022
- DOI:
- 10.1007/s00420-021-01716-9
- Bibcode:
- 2022IAOEH..95..153B
- Keywords:
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- Prospective study;
- Psychosocial risk factors;
- Physical demands;
- COPSOQ