Association of nature of work and work-related characteristics with cognitive functioning, life satisfaction and depression among Indian ageing adults

Most individuals spend a significant amount of their time at work, and the dynamics at work can potentially influence their overall life, especially health and mental health. The present study tried to understand the association of the nature of work categorized as physically demanding, psychologically demanding, and environmentally hazardous on life satisfaction, cognitive functioning, and depressive symptoms among working middle-aged and older adults in India.

We used data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI), Wave 1, collected between 2017 and 2018. The study sample consists of 28,653 working adults aged between 45 and 70. The study measures were assessed using standard tools. Linear regression analysis was employed.

The results indicate that individuals working in less physically demanding (β = 0.06, 99% CI = 0.02–0.09) and not hazardous environments (β = 0.15, 99% CI = 0.09–0.20) had better life satisfaction. Also, not being involved in hazardous work environments increased the likelihood of good cognitive functioning and reduced depressive symptoms (β= -0.17, 99% CI= -0.20- -0.15). However, samples involved in works requiring less psychological demand had an increased likelihood of reduced life satisfaction and increased depressive symptoms.

This study’s results highlight the importance of creating a conducive working environment for the ageing adults.