Work Ability Among Older Adult Farm Workers in Thailand

Abstract

Highlights: Farm work is characterized by physically demanding activities that are frequently associated with ergonomic and injury risks. Farm workers' psychomotor abilities and muscle mass decrease with age, leading to increased injury risk and decreased work ability. Work ability (WA) was measured using the Work Ability Index (WAI), a self-assessment questionnaire. Results showed that the most common WA level was moderate. WAI scores were correlated with demographic characteristics and health behaviors. The findings suggest that improvement programs should promote enhanced work ability for aging workers to prevent injuries and premature retirement.

Abstract: This study assessed the work ability (WA) and identify the factors affecting WA among older adult farm workers in Thailand. A total of 170 older adult farm workers (90 male, 80 female) completed a two-part WA self-assessment questionnaire comprising work-related items and the Work Ability Index (WAI) to determine WA. Total WAI scores ranged from 7 to 49. The average WAI score was 36.0, which is a moderate level. Univariate correlation analysis showed that WAI level was associated with regular medication intake, exercise behavior, sleep duration, health status, and pain symptoms. Body height and income were significantly associated with WAI score. Multivariate correlation analysis showed that WAI level was significantly associated with exercise behavior (odds ratio = 3.12, 95% CI [-1.91, -0.36], p < 0.05) and sleep duration (odds ratio = 2.44, 95% CI [-1.53, -0.26], p < 0.05). WAI score was significantly associated with body height. Older adult farm workers' WA was generally moderate, and it did not differ by sex. The findings suggest that enhancing older adult workers' exercise behavior, sleep duration, and related factors would restore or increase their ability to work, promote their health, prevent injuries, and prevent early retirement and work-related disability.

Keywords: Aging; Farm worker; Older adult; Thailand; Work ability; Work ability index.