Individual and occupational correlates of work ability of Polish employees with visual impairments

Although occupational activity is a key determinant of human well-being, labor market participation among people with visual impairments remains low. While barriers to employment for individuals with low vision or blindness have been explored, little is known about how they perceive their own work ability. This study therefore aimed to assess the level of work ability in this population in Poland and identify its correlates, using the person-environment fit model as a theoretical framework.

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 67 participants with visual impairments, of whom 41 were partially sighted and 60% were women. The questionnaire collected sociodemographic, health, disability, and job-related information, as well as data on social support from colleagues and supervisors (Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire). A dependent variable was measured with the Work Ability Index. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and hierarchical multiple regression analyses were performed.

Participants reported a generally good level of work ability (M±SD 37.54±6.46). Correlation analysis identified 5 variables significantly associated with work ability. In the regression model, 4 remained significant predictors: satisfaction with household income (β = 0.34, p < 0.001), self-rated health (β = 0.27, p < 0.01), presence of additional disability (β = -0.22, p < 0.01), and shift work (β = -0.23, p < 0.05). The model explained 62% of the variance in work ability (R² = 0.62). Additional analyses indicated that the examined variables explained more variance in the subjective-resource component of WAI than in its objective health component.

The findings highlight key personal and occupational factors shaping work ability among employees with visual impairments. Considering these factors in workplace interventions may help sustain employment and promote occupational well-being in this group. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2026;39(2):163-78.