Ageing, musculoskeletal health and work

Area of Science:

• Occupational health
• Rheumatology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Aging workforce presents challenges for individuals with musculoskeletal conditions.
• Patients with soft tissue rheumatism, osteoarthritis, and inflammatory arthritis increasingly work past traditional retirement age.
• Age-related comorbidities further complicate work capacity in older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review evidence on musculoskeletal health and work in older individuals.
• To identify factors influencing job retention for older workers with rheumatic conditions.
• To explore approaches for extending working life.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of musculoskeletal health and work at older ages.
• Analysis of factors affecting job retention.
• Consideration of interventions to extend working life.

Main Results:

• Musculoskeletal problems are prevalent in older workers.
• These conditions significantly impact work capacity and job retention.
• Evidence gaps exist regarding health risks/benefits of continued work and intervention effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• Musculoskeletal issues pose significant challenges for older workers.
• Further research is needed on interventions and the long-term effects of work for this demographic.
• Physician and manager roles in supporting older workers are crucial.