The Complexity of Decreased Work Ability: Individuals’ Perceptions of Factors That Affect Returning to Work after Sickness Absence

Much of what has been written about decreased work ability is based on quantitative studies and has been written from the perspective of professionals, service providers or authorities. In our qualitative study, we sought to understand how affected individuals themselves perceive and experience the multifaceted factors that are related to their decreased work ability. Sixteen individuals in Finland with musculoskeletal diseases (MSD) participated in semi-structured interviews. The participants were potential clients of a multi-professional service pilot model, the TOIKE Work Ability Centre. Narrative and thematic analyses were utilised. The study found that individuals with decreased work ability have differing perspectives towards returning to work and often complex life situations. Five distinctive groups were identified based on self-assessed health, work ability and orientation towards work or pension: (1) the Successful; (2) the Persevering; (3) the Forward-looking; (4) the Stuck; and (5) the Pension-oriented. Health problems, unemployment, age discrimination, financial difficulties and skill deficits were the major challenges of the interviewees. Furthermore, they perceived the service and benefit systems as complicated. The TOIKE service proved useful to some of them. However, many had not utilised it due to a lack of understanding of its purpose. Identifying the distinctive groups and their needs may improve interventions. Ultimately, this may help to achieve Target 8.5 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which advocates the right to employment for all ages and for those with disabilities.