Institutional and Individual Factors Affecting Health and Employment for Low-Income Women With Chronic Health Conditions.

TitleInstitutional and Individual Factors Affecting Health and Employment for Low-Income Women With Chronic Health Conditions.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2020
AuthorsCarolan, K, Gonzales, E, Lee, K, Harootyan, RA
JournalJ Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci
Volume75
Issue5
Pagination1062-1071
Date Published2020 Apr 16
ISSN1758-5368
KeywordsAged, Aged, 80 and over, Ageism, Chronic Disease, Disabled Persons, Employment, Female, Health Status, Humans, Interviews as Topic, Middle Aged, Poverty, Risk Factors, Socioeconomic Factors, United States
Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This qualitative study explored risk and protective factors affecting employment and health among low-income older women with chronic health conditions or physical disabilities.

METHODS: The authors conducted a secondary data analysis of 14 intensive interviews with low-income older women with chronic health conditions who had participated in a federally funded training and employment program for workers aged 55 and older. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS: The physical nature of the work and discrimination were risk factors, with unaccommodating work environments, ageism, and/or ableism, and internalized ageism identified as subthemes of discrimination. Protective factors, namely institutional supports (e.g., access to retraining, time management flexibility) enhanced health and self-confidence. Occupational demands matched with the capacity of the individual resulted in continued employment and improved health.

DISCUSSION: Working conditions can degrade health through exposure to mental and physical health risks, or support health through access to financial and interpersonal resources. Institutional supports such as workplace flexibility and retraining are crucial to obtaining a good fit between occupational demands and the capacity of individuals, enabling a positive relationship between employment and health. Legislation designed to prevent discrimination, enhance opportunities for lifelong learning, and encourage flexible work arrangements among low-income women with chronic health conditions may facilitate healthier working lives.

DOI10.1093/geronb/gby149
Alternate JournalJ Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci
PubMed ID30566614
PubMed Central IDPMC7931851