title: Towards a sustainable healthy working life: associations between chronological age, functional age and work outcomes.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The aims of this study were: (i) to determine the relation between chronological and functional age; (ii) to examine the association between chronological age and work outcomes; and (iii) to examine the association between functional age and work outcomes. An overview of the most reported work outcomes is outlined.
  
  
  METHODS
  Chronological age refers to the calendar age; functional age was measured with perceived health status (SF-36) and the presence of a chronic health condition. Perspectives on experienced problems, barriers, facilitators and support needs due to ageing and the Work Ability Index were gathered out as work outcomes.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The association of chronological and functional age of workers aged ≥45 years (n = 2971) on work outcomes were significant but small, except for the presence of a chronic health condition. The presence of a chronic health condition was not related to chronological age. Older workers (60-64 years) reported better scores on social functioning, mental health and vitality compared with workers aged 45-59 years. Most reported problems due to ageing were energy decline, muscle function decline, concentration lapses and memory deterioration. Experienced barriers were concentration, work pace problems and mobility; facilitators were support from colleagues, informal relations at work and supervisors. Individual agreement had to be met to continue working life.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This study confirmed that both chronological and functional age were associated with a decrease in work outcomes. Workers >60 years did not experience more problems and barriers compared with workers between 45 and 49 years of age.
authors: Department of Health Sciences, Work and Health, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands. w.koolhaas@med.umcg.nl
authors: Wendy
authors: W
authors: Koolhaas
authors: Jac J L
authors: JJ
authors: van der Klink
authors: Johan W
authors: JW
authors: Groothoff
authors: Sandra
authors: S
authors: Brouwer
mesh_terms: D000375:Aging; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004522:Educational Status; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D008603:Mental Health; D008875:Middle Aged; D009790:Occupations; D014937:Work / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*