Impact of Shift Work on Health and Well-Being in Later Life: Inequalities in the Context of Extending Working Life.

This paper, based on the European Working Conditions Survey (EWCS), explores the associations between health and well-being indicators among workers in Europe. The primary objective of this study is to identify predictors of work sustainability within the context of an extended working life. Sustainable work refers to the attainment of living and working conditions that enable individuals to engage in and remain in the workforce throughout their extended careers.

The measures are directed toward five specific domains that can enhance future workability: physical health, mental health, social interaction, environmental factors, and the unique challenges encountered by shift workers. Previous researches indicate that shift work adversely affects health, which has significant implications for workers' well-being in later life compared to those who work only during the day. The main research questions address the inequalities surrounding access to healthy aging and workability in later life.

The findings reveal a disconnect between the desire to work as long as possible and the perceived ability to do so. Many employees express a wish to continue working into later life, yet they simultaneously indicate that they may not be able to perform their current or similar jobs as they age. Specifically, those who experience early setbacks in their careers may desire to work but find that special factors like - shift work negatively impact their performance in later life.

These insights underscore the importance of promoting the subjective well-being of older individuals, highlighting the need for policies that support sustainable work practices and healthy aging. In conclusion, this study contributes to the understanding of how various factors influence the workability and health of older workers, emphasizing the necessity for targeted interventions that foster a supportive work environment.