Työkyvyn ulottuvuudet - Julkari

Abstract
Good work ability of the population is a crucial objective of health and social policy.
Good work ability increases wellbeing and supports employment. To promote work
ability information is needed on the dimensions of work ability for different population
groups.
This publication is based on the extensive data of the Health 2000 study. The data
was gathered in 2000-2001 through interviews, questionnaires and health examinations.
The book examines the work ability of persons aged 18-74, although the emphasis is on
the results for persons aged 30-64. The number of persons of this age who participated
in home interviews was 5199, i.e. 89 per cent of the sample.
Most people of working age described their work ability as good. There were
differences between different population groups, however. Young people, well-educated
persons and white-collar workers were most satisfied with their work ability. Farmers
perceived their work ability as worse than did other self-employed persons or employees.
The oldest women who were working assessed their work ability as clearly worse than
did men of the same age.
People of retirement age still had a moderate degree of work ability left. Of all those
aged 63-67 one-third estimated that they would have been capable of handling a job.
Work ability limitations were more common among unemployed people than among
gainfully employed people. The biggest risks regarding the work ability of persons aged
less than 30 years were consequently unemployment and lack of sufficient basic
education. Also insecure jobs weakened the perceived work ability.
Health and work were seen as the most important dimensions of work ability. The
work ability of those in employment was primarily weakened by depression and back
illnesses. Also among the healthy and well-educated the work ability limitations increased
with age. Of work-related factors, support from the superiors and co-workers as well
as the independence of the job and the possibilities of development offered by the job
were connected to good work ability. A good job seemed to ensure maintenance of
work ability also among older workers.
In addition to work and health also for instance knowledge and skills as well as
attitudes defined work ability. The link of knowledge and skills to work ability was
emphasised for well-educated persons, persons with physically undemanding jobs and
persons enjoying good health. Still, the connection of positive work attitudes to work
ability showed also for the long-term ill.
A comparison with the data of the Mini-Finland health survey carried out in 1978-
1980 showed that work ability of the population had improved. The improvement was
strongly linked to the simultaneous change in the level of education.