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Decline in Work Ability over Time and Its Association with Physical Performance Among Senior Workers: A Prospective
Simone Ejstrup1,2,3, Niels-Peter Brøchner Nygaard2,3,4, Gert Frank Thomsen5
1Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Esbjerg and Grindsted Hospital, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, 6700 Esbjerg, Denmark.
Summary
Work ability declines with age in senior workers. Maintaining physical performance is linked to better work ability over time.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Occupational Health
- Physiology
Background:
- Work ability (WA) naturally decreases with advancing age.
- This study examines WA changes in older workers and its link to physical performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the longitudinal changes in work ability among senior workers.
- To explore the association between work ability and objectively measured physical performance.
Main Methods:
- A cohort study involving 23,463 individuals aged 50-65 years with a 6.5-year follow-up.
- Questionnaires assessed work ability, work status, and general health.
- A subgroup underwent clinical testing for physical performance.
Main Results:
- Overall work ability decreased by -8.3 points over the follow-up period.
- The decline in work ability was consistent across genders and work demand levels.
- Higher muscle strength and functional capacity were positively associated with work ability.
Conclusions:
- Work ability declines longitudinally in senior workers.
- Physical performance is positively associated with maintaining work ability.
- Further research is needed to determine if enhancing physical performance can mitigate age-related WA decline.
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