Effect Of Work Ability Research Articles

Effects of work ability on the employment status of people with disabilities: Comparing degrees of disability, ICF activity limitations & participation restriction, levels of assistance needed for daily activities, and self-assessed health status

Effects of work ability on the employment status of people with disabilities: Comparing degrees of disability, ICF activity limitations & participation restriction, levels of assistance needed for daily activities, and self-assessed health status

Effects of work ability and health promoting interventions for women with musculoskeletal symptoms: A 9-month prospective study

BackgroundWomen working in the public human service sector in 'overstrained' situations run the risk of musculoskeletal symptoms and long-term sick leave. In order to maintain the level of health and work ability and strengthen the potential resources for health, it is important that employees gain greater control over decisions and actions affecting their health – a process associated with the concept of self-efficacy. The aim of this study was to describe the effects of a self-efficacy intervention and an ergonomic education intervention for women with musculoskeletal symptoms, employed in the public sector.MethodsThe design of the study was a 9-month prospective study describing the effects of two interventions, a comprehensive self-efficacy intervention (n = 21) and an ergonomic education intervention (n = 21). Data were obtained by a self-report questionnaire on health- and work ability-related factors at baseline, and at ten weeks and nine months follow-up. Within-group differences over time were analysed.ResultsOver the time period studied there were small magnitudes of improvements within each group. Within the self-efficacy intervention group positive effects in perceived work ability were shown. The ergonomic education group showed increased positive beliefs about future work ability and a more frequent use of pain coping strategies.ConclusionBoth interventions showed positive effects on women with musculoskeletal symptoms, but in different ways. Future research in this area should tailor interventions to participants' motivation and readiness to change.