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 l Many companies have discovered that the total cost of health care for their employees is directly related to the health of their employees. l Employers who actively help their employees stay healthy get better employees and save money. l A healthy employee is more productive and doesn’t require as much health care. l A healthy employee is happier and actually saves the company money. l A healthy employee is one who lives a healthy lifestyle.

Worksite Health Promotion Programs l Ask about your company’s health promotion program

Your Insurance Is Changing l 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 l Vending machines are being removed or filled with healthier foods l Soda is not longer as available in schools. They may only offer fruit drinks, milk, or water l Cafeterias are providing better foods l Physical education is becoming a requirement as is recess

Your Food and Physical Activity Environment Is Changing l Food labels now show trans fats l Some restaurants are offering more healthy selections l McDonalds has a grape/walnut salad l Fast food restaurants will eventually stop using trans fats

Science Is Changing l More science comes out every day l We are learning more about many aspects of a healthy lifestyle l This will continue

Best of All, You Are Changing l Individuals all across the U.S. are adopting healthy lifestyles. l Some worksites have employee who are much healthier than they used to be

Community Environments are Changing l Streets that support walking and bicycling l Better designed roads l Trees, crosswalks, sidewalks, bikeways l 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 l Share this book to someone you really care about. l Enough points to remember! Get out there and get started!