The Influence of Multi-morbidity on the Work Ability of Ageing Employees and the Role of Coping Style

Jan Fekke Ybema,Fenna R. M. Leijten,Emelien A. Kadijk,Swenneke van den Heuvel

doi:10.1007/s10926-018-9811-9

Jan Fekke Ybema, Fenna R. M. Leijten + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10926-018-9811-9

Copy DOI

Abstract

Purpose With an ageing workforce, employees are increasingly confronted with multi-morbidity. Especially physical and mental health problems often occur together. This study aims to (i) explore the effect of multi-morbidity on work ability of ageing employees, more specifically the effects of the number of health problems and the combination of physical and mental health problems, and to (ii) explore to what extent the effects of physical and mental health problems on work ability are explained by applying differing coping styles. Methods A 1 year follow up study (2012–2013) was conducted among 7175 employees aged 45–64 years. Linear regression analyses were conducted to examine longitudinal relationships between multi-morbidity, coping styles and work ability. To determine whether coping styles mediate the effects of multi-morbidity on work ability, Sobel tests were conducted. Results A higher number of health problems was related to poorer work ability, but this negative effect stabilized from three health problems onwards. The combination of physical and mental health problem(s) was more strongly related to poorer work ability than only physical health problems. The negative relation between physical health problems and work ability was partly suppressed by active coping, while the negative relation between the combination of physical and mental health problem(s) on work ability was partly explained by avoidant coping. Conclusions Ageing employees with multi-morbidity have a reduced work ability, especially when mental health problems are present. The greater negative effects of the combination of physical and mental health problems on work ability are partially due to unfavorable coping styles.

Highlights

In order to be able to fund ageing societies, it is inevitable that employees must work longer
In the current study, we examine whether an increase of the number of health problems leads to a decrease in work ability and at what point an additional health problem no longer negatively impacts work ability
To determine whether the effects of multiple health problems on work ability are mediated by coping styles, the second aim of this study is to explore whether health problems are related to coping styles and whether coping styles are in turn related to work ability

Summary

Introduction

In order to be able to fund ageing societies, it is inevitable that employees must work longer. Older employees often suffer from chronic health problems. In the period from 2007 to 2011, approximately 37% of the Dutch working population annually reported that they suffer from one or more chronic health problem [1]. Physical and mental health problems occur together more often than can be expected based on coincidence [4,5,6]. Research shows that shared vulnerabilities may be partly responsible for the occurrence of mental and physical health problems.

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion