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International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health

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Open Access 01-05-2020 | Original Article

The association between changes in functional capacity and work ability among unemployed individuals

Authors: Minna Savinainen, Jorma Seitsamo, Matti Joensuu

Published in: International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health | Issue 4/2020

Abstract

Purpose

Unemployment has multidimensional effects. This study investigated how the changes in functioning are associated with the changes in perceived work ability among unemployed people.

Methods

The participants were clients in projects funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) targeted for unemployed individuals. They answered a questionnaire covering work ability (Work Ability Score) and functioning (cognitive, psychological and social functioning, physical condition and everyday activities) and perceived health at the beginning and at the end of the project (mean follow-up 173 days). The study included data from unemployed respondents (N = 502) aged 19–64 years.

Results

Overall, during the follow-up, both work ability and different aspects of functioning improved, excluding physical condition. Changes in cognitive and psychological functioning, physical condition and everyday activities were significantly associated with the changes in work ability. The physical condition had the strongest association with the changes in work ability. Short unemployment time and especially good perceived health improved WAS over time. Age, gender and follow-up time were not associated with changes in work ability.

Conclusions

Maintaining or improving health and functioning and shortening the length of unemployment appeared to be important issues in enhancing work ability and thus increasing re-employability potential.

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Title: The association between changes in functional capacity and work ability among unemployed individuals
Authors: Minna Savinainen
Jorma Seitsamo
Matti Joensuu
Publication date: 01-05-2020
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health / Issue 4/2020
Print ISSN: 0340-0131
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1246
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00420-019-01498-1

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

The association between changes in functional capacity and work ability among unemployed individuals

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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