Perceived work ability of home care workers in relation to individual and work-related factors in different age groups

This study analysed the relationship between age and items of the Work Abil ity Index (WAI) among 19- to 62-year-old female home care workers (n = 636) . The first significant decrease in work ability occurred between the ages of 40 and 44 years, and a second, sharper decrease occurred after 55 years of age. The subjects' physical work ability deteriorated as early as 35 yea rs of age. In addition, current work ability, number of diagnosed diseases and work impairment due to diseases proved to be the most age-sensitive mea sures of work ability. The subjects who perceived their health status as po or had the highest risk for poor work ability. Moreover, the age-adjusted o dds ratio indicated that the WAI was strongly associated with age and muscu loskeletal and psychosomatic symptoms. Ergonomics, possibilities to control one's own work, time pressure and management were the features of work tha t predicted work ability. The study demonstrated the need to promote the wo rk ability of home care workers early in working life. Among both older and younger workers, preventive measures should focus on the above-mentioned f actors.