Shifting Workforces
The ever-evolving state of everything around us was a subject of constant intrigue to Marcus Aurelius, the Roman statesman and sage. He was fascinated by the transformation and continuing development of both our surroundings and the universe at large. It could be argued that he was one of the first to philosophically acknowledge the concept of change management, recognizing that change is the only true constant in life, as evident today as it was during the Roman Empire.
This applies especially to the workplace, as it’s continually reshaped by emerging technologies, novel processes and fresh occupations, often eclipsing what previously stood. Then there’s the dramatic shift in the workforce demographic compared to say, half a century ago. With the rise in advanced higher education opportunities, many occupations now require qualifications, leading to a delayed entry into the workforce for many.
As the UK’s population ages, its impact on the workplace will elevate. Current figures from the UK Parliament suggest that 10 million UK citizens are above 65 years, accounting for roughly 16% of the entire populace. Population experts anticipate a rise of 5.5 million in the next twenty years, nearly doubling by 2050 when it’s expected that one in every four people will be past 65.
Predicting how workplaces will look by 2050 is challenging, as is estimating medical science advances. Regardless, in our current reality, significant changes to employment rules include the eradication of obligatory retirement age. This indicates a prolonged working future for many employees, which will play a significant part in formulating health policies at workplaces.
Healthier Today for a Healthier Tomorrow
There’s no denying that healthy habits contribute to overall well-being. Cross-validating with NHS Choices, maintaining appropriate physical activity levels can reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and strokes by up to 50%, and even decrease early death probability by up to 30%. For those suffering from osteoarthritis, the risk can be cut by a staggering 83% of acquiring it.
Thus, health education is crucial for workers to sustain peak health for an extended working life. This may entail governmental awareness drives and more emphasis in companies’ well-being strategies.
Advancing employers now cater to a plethora of well-being benefits, including health coverage; companies like AXA PPP offer corporate insurance for large businesses, SMEs, and self-employed individuals. Many organizations also provide employee assistance programs to support staff facing challenging life events.
Data from the Office of National Statistics visibly portrays our progress towards healthier workplaces; sick days dropped from 178 million in 1993 to 131 million in 2011, a noteworthy 25% plunge.
However, a recent study shared that while two-thirds of workers perceive their health as good or excellent, they also exhibit two or more disease risk factors, like smoking and obesity. On the bright side, healthy behaviours seemed interconnected – those who exercise regularly were less inclined to smoke and vice versa.
The decrease in smoking rates, improved health education, and progressive attitudes towards mental health all contribute to a healthier workforce for prolonged working life. It’s critical, nonetheless, that workplace health remains a priority for continuous enhancement.
