Work community factors, occupational well-being and work ability in home care: A structural equation modelling

Abstract

Aim: To examine how work community factors are related to occupational well-being and work ability, and how occupational well-being is related to work ability. Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted among home care workers in one municipality in Finland. Methods: A self-administered survey on work and well-being was filled out by 167 employees working two shifts in 2019. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the association between work community factors, occupational well-being and work ability. Results: The only work community factor directly affecting Occupational well-being was Information and work organization; the effect of the other two factors, Social support and Influence on work shifts, was indirect. All work community factors indirectly affected Work ability. Home care should emphasize information provision and work organization with optimal time use. This requires social support, a well-functioning work atmosphere and providing employees with opportunities for influence and participation.