Associations between the Abilitator, a self-reported measurement tool of work ability and functioning, and national register-based indicators of health and employment

Abstract

Objectives The Abilitator is a recently developed self-reported measurement tool for work ability and functioning of people in a weak labour market position. The aim of this study was to describe how self-reported information gathered with the Abilitator corresponds to information drawn from national registers.Design, setting and participants Participants (n=669, mean age 44 years, 55% women) took part in the Work Ability Programme (2020–2023) that provided services for unemployed people with reduced work ability. They filled in the Abilitator questionnaire at the start of the service. Register-based data on participants’ health, income and received benefits was drawn from national registers. We evaluated how the different types of indicators concurred.Results Statistically significant correlations (from weak to moderate) were found between different domains of the Abilitator and register-based data. Also, participants’ health status (information on mental health or musculoskeletal disorders) was displayed coherently in the results of the Abilitator. Overall, diagnosed mental health disorders distinguished participants’ Abilitator responses more strongly than diagnosed musculoskeletal disorders.Conclusions These findings provide further evidence on the applicability of the Abilitator as an instrument to evaluate work ability and functioning of people outside the work force.