Throughout the nation, an increasing number of employers are actively promoting the wellness of their employees. Workplace wellness programs are spreading like wildfire in companies across the U.S., and corporations as well as their employees are reaping the benefits.
It’s no wonder these programs are increasing in popularity, as the benefits to both the employee and employer are endless. For one, well workers take fewer sick days. Secondly, the healthier an employee is, the happier, more focused and more productive he or she will be on the job. And perhaps most importantly, as the cost of healthcare continues to skyrocket in the U.S., employers are searching for creative ways to rein in employee health benefit costs. Obviously, healthy employees make fewer doctor visits and are less likely to require expensive surgeries or medical procedures.
These beneficial programs also help to boost worker morale, which leads to higher employee retention rates. The more employees interact together in social situations, such as in fitness classes or weight management programs, the more likely they are to work well together in the corporate environment. In other words, endorsing wellness in the workplace is a win-win situation.
Many of these wellness-promoting companies are not only exploring ways to reduce the risk of work-related injuries—they’re also actively encouraging their workers to make healthy lifestyle choices. And according to recent studies, these employee-sponsored programs are working. As a matter of fact, some company wellness programs have reduced the use of sick leave by at least 28%, the use of health care benefits by 26% and the number of workers’ compensation claims and disability management by 30% in the past year, according to an American Journal of Health Promotion study.
While some companies choose to develop and manage their own wellness programs, other businesses hire workplace wellness consulting groups or coaches to come in and tailor a program. These valuable employer-sponsored programs can include everything from nutrition education to on-site fitness classes. Workplace wellness programs may also include some of the following features and benefits:
These valuable wellness programs are extremely well-received by employees. Not only do the programs improve retention levels of current employees, but they often help companies attract new employees. As a matter of fact, many professionals have come to expect some sort of wellness program or benefits from prospective employers.
Some employers even extend the wellness program features to employee families. By getting family members involved in good nutrition and fitness, employers can ensure that their workers are staying healthy both at work and at home.
Balancing life’s countless responsibilities is often a daunting challenge for many people. Between work duties, family obligations and social engagements, it’s easy to lose sight of one of our most important commitments: our health. That’s exactly why these workplace wellness programs are becoming increasingly important for both employees and employers throughout the country.
