Chapter 14

The Winds of Change

They must often change who would be constant in happiness or wisdom.

Confucius (551 BC–479 BC)

Your Employer Is Changing

Many companies have discovered that the total cost of health care for their employees is directly related to the health of their employees.

Employers who actively help their employees stay healthy get better employees and save money.

A healthy employee is more productive and doesn’t require as much health care.

A healthy employee is happier and actually saves the company money.

A healthy employee is one who lives a healthy lifestyle.

Worksite Health Promotion Programs

Ask about your company’s health promotion program

Your Insurance Is Changing

More and more insurance companies are “risk rating” their insurance. That means if you are obese or physically inactive, for example, you may have to pay more for insurance. Rates are lower for those who are living a healthy lifestyle.

Schools Are Changing

Vending machines are being removed or filled with healthier foods

Soda is not longer as available in schools. They may only offer fruit drinks, milk, or water

Cafeterias are providing better foods Physical education is becoming a

requirement as is recess

Your Food and Physical Activity Environment Is

Changing

Food labels now show trans fats Some restaurants are offering more

healthy selections McDonalds has a grape/walnut

salad Fast food restaurants will

eventually stop using trans fats

Science Is Changing

More science comes out every day We are learning more about many

aspects of a healthy lifestyle This will continue

Best of All, You Are Changing

Individuals all across the U.S. are adopting healthy lifestyles.

Some worksites have employee who are much healthier than they used to be

Community Environmentsare Changing

Streets that support walking and bicycling Better designed roads Trees, crosswalks, sidewalks, bikeways Slower traffic that encourages walking

Policy Changes

» Medical coverage for preventive services

» Absenteeism policy that supports being healthy

» No smoking policies» Flex time» Time to be healthy» Free from overly demanding work

Workplace Culture

» Peer support» Supportive friends» Church, community support» Worksite health promotion programs

You can do it!

Points to Remember

Share this book to someone you really care about.

Enough points to remember! Get out there and get started!