Demographic change and disability management in Australia, Canada, China and Switzerland. A comparative study

Abstract

In recent years, demographic change and an increasing shortage of qualified workers has presented new challenges for both developed and developing economies. Strategies to face these challenges have included increased company activity to retain internal labour forces and, specifically, the use of disability management (DM). The study was conducted in Australia, Canada, China and Switzerland. Thirty-two companies participated, 128 in-depth interviews were conducted and 1,201 employees participated in the survey. The results indicate that DM is positively related to job satisfaction, morale, physical and mental health, and sick leave. The support of employees is seen as effective in improving their health conditions and productivity in the company. DM is underpinned by relevant legislation and welfare expectations in each country, but companies face the problem of obtaining the required know-how to successfully implement DM. The study provides a baseline for improved DM practice in individual companies across countries, as well as for further international DM research.