#109-S factors associated with labor force participation in people with disability

Abstract

PURPOSE: Although reduced labor force participation (LFP) is often a consequence of physical disability, little is known about the role of workplace barriers. This study uses a conceptual model based on the WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) and hypothesizes workplace barriers as a mediating variable between disability and LFP. METHODS: Data from the 1991 Canadian Health and Activity Limitation Survey (HALS) were used. Working age participants (25–64 years) with disability (N = 18,384 (males 50.5%)) were included. Employment status was dichotomised into 0 = in labor force (employed & unemployed), 1 = not in labor force. Based on exploratory factor analyses, two latent constructs (lower limb and upper limb disability) were used to represent 12 categorical physical disability indicators (e.g. difficulty in walking) and one latent construct was derived for 8 workplace barrier indicators (e.g. lack of accessible workstation, elevator or flexible hours if needed). Personal variables (age, sex, education) were also incorporated into the model. MPLUS MEANSTRUCT procedures were used to perform the categorical factor analysis and SEM analyses. RESULTS: Lower limb disability affected LFP both directly (b = 0.153) and indirectly through workplace barriers (b = 0.186). Upper body disability affected LFP only indirectly through workplace barriers (b = 0.065). Older age, female gender, and low education were also associated with reduced LFP. CONCLUSION: Most of the effect of lower limb disability and all of the effect of upper limb disability on labor force participation is mediated by workplace barriers, which underscores the importance of reducing these barriers.