Studies routinely show that employees who are well are more productive. A healthy workforce can also lead to decreased absenteeism or use of sick time, lower health care coverage premiums and reduced disability costs. To help keep team members living healthy lifestyles, companies offer employee wellness plans. In addition to helping employees maintain a healthy diet, the plans encourage exercise and preventative medical care.
Here are some benefits of an employee wellness plan:
- Exercising with a co-worker can help teammates bond while fostering encouragement and building camaraderie. Friendly competition for better wellness can be fun.
- Employees who become more aware of their exercise routines typically make healthier decisions.
- Many plans offer incentives for certain behaviors, like regular exercise or medical visits. Things such as gift cards or products can be awarded for meeting certain criteria in the plan. The company may also offer an extra day off for employees who meet certain wellness criteria.
- A healthy workforce often leads to a better attitude in the workplace. When people feel good, they can be more upbeat.
- A wellness plan can contribute to recruitment and retention. Today’s employees are interested in more than a paycheck. Employee perks are often more important.
- It can reduce the risk factors for serious diseases such as diabetes, heart problems or muscle loss.
- The company may receive tax incentives for offering a wellness plan.
Good health is a win-win for everyone. Do your part to keep your employees happy and well.