Twenty-four percent of Canadian employers say work-related stress and sedentary lifestyles are the top major health risks affecting their employees, according to the Sun Life-Buffett National Wellness Survey.
An aging workforce coupled with the introduction of a younger generation of workers has businesses taking a closer look at what they are doing to support the well-being of their employees.
Noticing an increase in lifestyle related health conditions and the opportunity for illness prevention, many companies are seeing the need to invest in the health of their employees.
“With an increase in illnesses relating to both stress and sedentary lifestyles, the need for employer sponsored wellness programs is growing rapidly,” says Lori Casselman, Sun Life Financial’s asssistant vice-president, health and wellness, group benefits.
Ninety-two per cent of organizations surveyed recognize that the health of their employees influences overall corporate performance.
The survey also finds that 62% of organizations currently offer wellness initiatives with 51% reporting an increase in employee morale and a 40% decrease in absenteeism.
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