A recent study by the Finnish pension insurance company Varma has raised alarms regarding disability pensions, particularly among men over 55. The study found that almost 60% of early retirees on disability pensions could have avoided this fate if support measures to maintain work ability had been implemented early enough. The research identified that the likelihood of permanent disability pensions increases significantly with age and the severity of illness, with neurological diseases and tumors posing a considerable risk.

In addition to age and health severity, the study highlighted that factors such as being male and having a history of previous benefit denials also increased the probability of receiving a full disability pension. Disturbingly, many individuals over 55 are entering long-term disability pensions without having received any prior work pension benefits, which points to a troubling trend where workplace challenges are being ignored until it is too late.

Varma's findings suggest a need for more proactive and timely interventions for individuals facing work ability challenges, especially for older workers. The results call for a reevaluation of current support systems to ensure that individuals do not struggle alone with their capabilities for extended periods before seeking help, potentially leading to a permanent exit from the workforce.