Risk of incapacity to work: Switzerland is so unprepared!

Risk of incapacity to work: Switzerland is so unprepared!

In Switzerland, current surveys show that the population is insufficiently financially prepared with regard to the risk of their own incapacity to work. According to a report by the Trade newspaper Only 17% of the population consider the risk of their own incapacity for work to be very high. Awareness is particularly striking in different age groups: While only 10% of 18 to 34 year olds take this risk seriously, over 24% of those over 50 are aware of it. Self-employed people in particular show a dramatically higher assessment, with 50% viewing the risk as very high.

Another important factor that influences the perception of this risk is the level of education. Individuals with higher levels of education tend to be less concerned about the possibility of disability. This suggests that education is important not only for professional careers, but also for personal risk assessment.

Health and occupational stress

In addition to personal risk assessment, the relationship between health and disability is an important issue. Research results show that various studies, such as those by Wurm and Tesch-Römer (2008) and Siegrist and Dragano (2006), point to a direct connection between occupational stress and the risk of health problems. It is known that occupational stress, particularly in old age, can impair employment.

The study by Wang et al. (2009) suggests that changes in perceived workload are also associated with increased risk of major depression. This increases the urgency to raise awareness of the health risks of incapacity. The data on unemployment and health determined by the 2005 microcensus also confirm these connections.

Consequences of incapacity to work

The emerging health problems can not only dramatically worsen the financial situation of those affected, but can also increase far-reaching social inequalities. Studies such as those by Hauser (2012) and Elkeles (1999) show that incapacity to work is often associated with poverty and therefore endangers the social security of those affected. The German Pension Insurance has stated in its reports that support for disability pensions is necessary in order to better protect vulnerable groups.

In summary, it can be said that inadequate preparation for the risk of incapacity to work not only represents an individual challenge, but also has social implications. Increased awareness and preventive measures are essential to educate the population about the risks and promote financial security.