[Work ability and functional aging: a Systemic Analysis of the Literature using ProkNow-C (Knowledge Development...

Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) data indicate that the elderly population of Brazil numbering 11% in 2003, will attain 33.7% by 2060. This aging process can be diagnosed from the capability workers possess for their labor activities. ProKnow-C was used to conduct the review, carrying out bibliometric and systemic analysis of the literature on the subject. The results led to the compilation of a portfolio with 29 papers, highlighting the most relevant journals, authors and keywords. Systemic analysis provided important results: survey methodology was applied on 26 papers, 21 of which were cross-sectional studies; in all the papers the WAI was associated with sociodemographic data; in 10 studies it was found that the work ability decreased while age increased and the practice of physical exercises was positively associated with the WAI in 11 studies. The results led to the perception that the WAI is an instrument that makes it possible to diagnose the situation of the working life of employees, and, in the case of low rates, the presence of early functional aging is detected. The study highlighted the importance of assessing aspects of the worker's social life, since these factors influence the work ability positively or negatively.