How job quality in the service sector affects health over time

Effects of Job Quality in the Service Sector on Health-Related Outcomes Across the Life Course

NIH-funded research Harvard University · NIH-11002300

This study looks at how the quality of jobs in the service industry affects the health of workers aged 65 and older, especially with new workplace practices like surveillance and unpredictable schedules, to help improve their well-being and job conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHarvard University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cambridge, United States)
Project IDNIH-11002300 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of job quality in the service sector on health outcomes for workers, particularly focusing on those aged 65 and older. It aims to understand how modern workplace practices, such as surveillance, unpredictable scheduling, and automation, influence health and well-being across a worker's life. By collecting new survey data from service-sector employees, the study seeks to fill gaps in knowledge regarding the relationship between job conditions and health, especially as these practices become more common. The findings could inform policies aimed at improving job quality and health outcomes for older workers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are service sector workers aged 65 and older who are experiencing the effects of modern job practices.

Not a fit: Patients who are not employed in the service sector or are younger than 65 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved workplace policies that enhance the health and well-being of older service sector workers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that job conditions significantly impact health, but this specific focus on modern workplace practices is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Cambridge, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.