Abstract
The aim of the present study is to analyse the psychometric properties of the work ability index (WAI) within a sample of Spanish health centre workers. The WAI was translated into Spanish using transcultural and forward–backward translation processes and administered to 1184 Spanish health centre workers. Internal consistency, predictive validity, and discriminative ability were examined. Exploratory factor analysis, via principal components analysis and confirmatory factor analysis, determined the most appropriate questionnaire structure. All indices in relation to predictive validity and reliability were acceptable. Exploratory factor analysis supported validity of the one-factor structure, however, confirmatory factor analysis suggested better properties in relation to a two-factor structure (χ2 = 59.52; CFI = 0.98; TLI = 0.96; RMSEA = 0.06). Items 3, 4, and 5 loaded onto factor one, and items 1, 2, 6, and 7 loaded onto factor two. The two factors could be broadly described as “subjectively estimated work ability” and “ill-health-related ability”. The WAI is valid and reliable when administered to health centre workers in Spain. In contrast to that suggested by studies conducted in other countries, future research and practical application with similar respondents and settings should proceed using the two-factor structure.
Highlights
The workforce is ageing in many countries around the world [1,2]
T-test analysis supported the discriminative ability of the instrument, with respondents self-reporting good health ( x = 42.92 ± 3.28) reporting significantly higher work ability index (WAI) scores than those reporting poor health ( x = 34.61 ± 6.95; t = 21.19; p = 0.000)
The present study sought to verify the psychometric properties of the work ability index [16], translated into Spanish and administered amongst a large sample of Spanish health centre workers
Summary
The workforce is ageing in many countries around the world [1,2]. The challenges this presents have given rise to government policies with a stronger emphasis on work ability promotion and the extension of working life [3].Work ability is defined as the worker’s ability to perform their work based on their mental and physical conditions and occupational needs, in addition to the capacities and capabilities of individuals in relation to the physical and psychological needs of work [4]. The workforce is ageing in many countries around the world [1,2]. The challenges this presents have given rise to government policies with a stronger emphasis on work ability promotion and the extension of working life [3]. Work ability is defined as the worker’s ability to perform their work based on their mental and physical conditions and occupational needs, in addition to the capacities and capabilities of individuals in relation to the physical and psychological needs of work [4]. We defined work ability as the product of self-evaluations of the balance that exists between the psychophysical demands of the job at hand and the individual’s psychophysical capacity [5]. Excellent work ability is closely related with improved work quality, and improved quality of life and
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