[The subjective experience of employment of young adults with rheumatoid arthritis on the general labour market - A qualitative study].

PURPOSE: The search for inclusion and participation of people with disabilities is increasingly becoming the focus of research in the context of demographic development and the associated labour shortage. The research situation in the context of chronic diseases is considered to be low in the national area. This applies in particular to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in young adulthood. Existing work points to the importance of adaptations in the field of work and working time.

METHODS

As part of the study, 17 individual interviews were conducted with young adults aged 18 to 35. These were transcribed and analyzed using the content-structuring qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS

As a result of the relapsing disease activity, physical limitations occurred in the affected persons in their daily work routine. These were aggravated by accompanying symptoms of the disease. With regard to the work situation, it was evident that a lack of flexible working hours, work breaks and places as well as the lack of ergonomic workplace design and accessibility at the workplace could contribute to the physical limitations of the disease. Socio-psychological challenges, such as incomprehension and prejudices on the part of colleagues and/or managers with regard to a chronic illness, led to further psychosocial difficulties in those affected.

CONCLUSION

The present study provides initial insights into the individual-specific and work-related challenges of young adults with rheumatic disease. With reference to the multilevel model of occupational inclusion, the individual problems of the affected employees can be traced back to multiple influencing factors.