Torgén M, Nygård CH, Kilbom A, et al.
European journal of applied physiology and occupational physiology. Date of publication 1995 Jan 1;volume 71(5):444-52.
1. Eur J Appl Physiol Occup Physiol. 1995;71(5):444-52. doi: 10.1007/BF00635879.
Physical work load, physical capacity and strain among elderly female aides in
home-care service.
Torgén M(1), Nygård CH, Kilbom A.
Author information:
(1)Department of Applied Physiology, National Institute of Occupational Health,
Solna, Sweden.
A study was undertaken to investigate physical work load, physical capacity,
physical strain and perceived health among elderly aides in home-care service. A
secondary aim was to compare the work load and strain between the two main types
of home-care service available in Sweden today. Work tasks and their
distribution among 20 elderly aides (aged 45-65 years), working in open
home-care service (clients living in their original flats or houses) and at
service apartment houses (clients living in private flats constructed for the
elderly and handicapped with service functions) were observed during whole work
days. Heart rate and number of steps taken were also measured continuously
during the whole work day. Oxygen consumption and work postures for upper arm
and back were measured during parts of the work day. The results showed that
home-care work is characterised by long periods of standing and walking and that
postures potentially harmful for the low back and shoulders occurred frequently.
Average physiological strain measured as relative oxygen consumption and heart
rate during the work day did not exceed present recommendations. Average
physical work load and strain in open home-care service slightly exceeded those
in service apartment houses because of more frequent cleaning and walking
outdoors. Many aides in this study showed slightly reduced physical capacity,
and musculoskeletal problems were common. Many elderly aides in home-care
service are probably exposed at work to high risks of overexertion and impaired
health as a result of high postural loads in combination with other known
important factors, such as time stress and lack of equipment.
DOI: 10.1007/BF00635879
PMID: 8565977 [Indexed for MEDLINE]
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