Article

The aim of this study was to compare workers and nonworkers who reported
mild, moderate, and severe/complete functional limitations to identify
disparities in 19 health and social indicators. METHOD: Using the International
Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health as our conceptual framework,
we analyzed data from the combined 2000-2008 National Health Interview Survey,
comparing workers and nonworkers by severity of functional limitations, as
measured by the FL12 Scale of Functional Limitation Severity. RESULTS: Only 9.5%
of people reporting moderate/severe functional limitations worked. Although not
without exception, not working and severity of functional limitation were
associated with poorer health outcomes, with nonworkers reporting severe/complete
limitations having least optimal health. Prevalence of chronic conditions was
associated with level of functional limitation severity, with the strongest
associations among nonworkers. CONCLUSIONS: By focusing exclusively on people
with functional limitations, we were better able to examine factors contributing
to health and participation of workers and nonworkers. People who worked and had
moderate or severe/complete limitations often did so while reporting poor health.
With improved access to health care, health promotion activities, and other
support systems, the quality of life and likelihood of work participation of
people with greater functional limitations might also be improved.

Langue : ANGLAIS