Workload and emotional exhaustion among older assistant care workers in Japan: Buffering effect of work resources.

Abstract

Aim: Based on the Job Demands-Resources model, this study aimed to assess the predictive effect of workload on emotional exhaustion and test the buffering effect of three types of work resources (workplace cohesion, work control, and workplace support) on the relationship between workload and emotional exhaustion among older Japanese assistant care workers.

Methods: We analyzed data from a national survey on the work features and work-related outcomes of 1601 older assistant care workers working in geriatric health services facilities in Japan. Demographic characteristics, workload, work resources, and emotional exhaustion were analyzed. A hierarchical multiple regression analysis and simple slope test were conducted.

Results: Workload had a significant main effect in predicting emotional exhaustion (β = 0.337, P < 0.001). Workplace cohesion buffered the negative effect of workload on emotional exhaustion (interaction between workload and workplace cohesion: β = -0.097, P = 0.002). Work control (interaction between workload and work control: β = -0.015, P = 0.585) and workplace support (interaction between workload and workplace support: β = 0.025, P = 0.391) had no buffering effect on the negative impact of workload on emotional exhaustion.

Conclusions: Regulating workload and promoting workplace cohesion might be effective strategies for preventing burnout among elderly workers. Investigations into the occupational stress of elderly workers from diverse cultures and work contexts are needed. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; ••: ••-••.