April 1, 2008

Employee Benefit News

Extra Time off Can Foster Healthier Lifestyles

Employers may wonder exactly what would get their reluctant workers to choose healthy foods, exercise consistently and get the necessary preventive care. Cash may be the prevailing incentive in workplace wellness programs, but some employers are taking another look at paid time off and other incentives as potentially powerful motivators.

According to a recent survey from ComPsych, employees said a personal coach was the No. 1 motivator to help them improve their health and lifestyle, more so than days off work. “For lasting health improvement, wellness programs must coach and inspire workers to take responsibility for their lifestyle choices and give them the tools to self-manage their health,” says Richard Chaifetz, CEO of ComPsych, a Chicago-based provider of employee assistance and wellness programs.