Workplace Wellness on a Budget

Everyone knows that improving eating behaviors, modifying sleep habits, and exercising more consistently can extend life expectancy. Moreover, simple lifestyle changes can decrease health costs. So knowing this, why are companies still resistant to promoting wellness programs?

At The Human ReSource, LLC, we have found that many companies view wellness programs as difficult to administer and present too much challenge with regard to monitoring use and success. Yes, some Louisville and Southern Indiana companies are offering wellness programs. However, according to a SHRM (Society of Human Resource Management) survey, only 58 percent of companies (employing in excess of 250 employees) nationwide offer wellness programs, and the percentage of smaller companies supporting wellness programs is significantly lower.

But consider this; on average, Americans are spending an additional 10 hours working each week. This offers employers a unique opportunity to positively affect healthier habits. Of course, not all employers can afford to invest in a 30,000 square foot employee fitness center; yet there are simple ways and inexpensive methods to influence healthier choices to improve employee wellness and employee retention. The goals for any wellness program, large or small, is ultimately to educate employees to live healthier; thereby, healthcare costs are reduced, a supportive work environment is established, and employers experience less absenteeism and higher retention rates.

So, no matter your company size or budget, you too, can develop a wellness program for your employees. First things first, decide who will champion this effort. It will be important that communication is centralized and consistent throughout. Someone who has functioned in human resources or someone who is well-respected by your employees would be best. The second step is to determine general guidelines with regard to how information will be communicated (i.e. company website, newsletter, etc.) and the amount of time allotted to the program. Generally, even after a simple program is developed, it should be expected that this effort will require approximately 10 hours each month from your chosen “Wellness Champion.” Lastly, work with other companies in your area that are promoting wellness programs and seek out local agencies or businesses that cater to employers offering wellness-at-work programs (i.e., YMCA, local hospitals, etc.)

The suggestions below can be used to jump-start your own wellness plan on a budget.

ü Illustrate management commitment to the program during a healthy employee luncheon – introduce the plan, program administrator, and newly created “wellness” newsletter.

ü Get employees involved in writing wellness and fitness articles and submitting their own favorite heart- friendly meals.

ü Ask employees to actively share information about community or neighborhood sponsored activities, walking, biking, health screening, etc.

ü Team with a local fitness instructor to reduce fitness class enrollment fees for your employees.

ü Work with a local healthcare facility or hospital to provide wellness literature to employees.

ü Make smart vending machine and luncheon choices – reduce fatty foods and add wholesome health bars, fresh fruit, and healthier drink choices.

ü Provide employees with pedometers and have a contest for the most steps in one month – celebrate all successes!

ü Offer information on how families can work together to improve overall health by exercising together.

Keep your efforts modest, if you choose, but keep your commitment to your employees constant. With minimal time and investment, you can promote a healthier workplace that results in improved morale and enhanced employee loyalty.