More American workers recognize the rewards of participating in workplace wellness programs, according to the latest survey from Principal Financial. Sixty-two percent of workers, up from 55% in 2011, believe workplace wellness activities are successful in improving health and reducing health risks.
By taking advantage of workplace
“As wellness programs become more established in the workplace, we are seeing a growing number of employees appreciate – and expect – that their employer offers these benefits,” says Lee Dukes, president of Principal Wellness Company, a subsidiary of the Principal Financial Group. “In the wake of the financial crisis, which has left many companies stretched thin, maintaining a productive workforce is a priority for organizations.”
Nearly half (45%) of employees agree that an employer-sponsored wellness program would
Participants also cited an increase in the following employer incentives:
- 17%, up from 9% the previous year, say their employer offers contributions into a
health savings account or health reimbursement account. - 16% up from 12% the previous year, say their employer provides other financial incentives such as gift certificates or discounts for those who participate.
- 10%, up from 6% the previous year, report that their employer rewards additional paid time off from work to participants.
“It’s in every employer’s interest to have healthier, happier, more productive employees,” Dukes says. “Employers have to do more than offer wellness programs; in order to see the benefits, they have to incent participation.”