Benefits August 25, 2008

Wellness Efforts Should Focus on Younger Employees

August 25, 2008 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - A new study suggests younger workers have more unhealthy lifestyles than older workers and are at greater risk for developing long-term health problems.
Reported by

The study by ComPsych Corporation found 52.2% of employees in their 60s had healthy diets, compared to 17.7% of workers in their 30s. Likewise, 27.3% of employees in their 50s exercised more than four days a week, while 19.6% of 30-something workers did so, according to a press release.

In addition, the survey found 82.6% of workers in their 60s had a very positive outlook on life, compared to 46% of employees in their 30s. More than twice as many workers in their 30s (64.7%) reported high stress levels than employees in their 60s (30.4%).


“Workers in their 30s may be at peak productivity but also at greatest risk for neglecting their health and developing long-term health problems due to poor lifestyle choices,” said Dr. Richard A. Chaifetz, chairman and CEO of ComPsych, in the press release. “Corporate wellness programs should be especially attentive to the needs and issues of this age group.”

A copy of the full report, as well as a tip sheet on age-specific wellness programs for Building the Optimal Workforce, can be requested from www.compsych.com/wellnessreport .

«