Today’s workforce is multigenerational, composed of more distinct age groups than ever before. This diverse mix brings unique opportunities and unique challenges — especially as it relates to health and wellbeing both in and outside of work. Each generation has different needs, from mental health support for younger employees navigating new workplace pressures to physical health guidance for older employees focused on maintaining long-term wellness.
When it comes to employee health and wellbeing benefits, this means the need for personalized solutions has never been more important. REAL Health coaching offered by YourCoach is one of the most effective ways to provide individualized support for multigenerational workplaces because every health coach tailors their approach to the unique challenges, needs and goals of their clients. They’re trained to meet every individual where they are and help them outline and achieve manageable goals. In today’s blog, we showcase a few examples of how health coaches help employees across generations unlock optimal health and wellbeing.
Taking care of the caregivers.
Recent studies estimate around 29% of the U.S. adult population are caregivers, which accounts for nearly a third of households across the country. Not only that, but some research suggests about a quarter of Americans are part of the “Sandwich Generation,” a term representing adults who are caring for both an aging parent and a young child. Many of these caregivers are also an active part of the workforce in the U.S., which means they’re faced with balancing career responsibilities with caregiving demands. And of course, they also need to find time to care for their own health and wellbeing. This is what often takes the biggest hit, and where health coaches can provide such necessary support.
Between 40 and 70% of caregivers have clinically significant symptoms of depression. Health coaches can help employees make time to prioritize their health and wellbeing — even if it means breaking up bigger goals into bite-sized, manageable steps. By offering tools to manage stress, improve sleep, and build resilience, health coaches can provide caregivers with the resources they need to care for themselves, while still fulfilling their caregiving roles. Health coaches work closely with each individual to create a personalized plan that works for them, helps them set boundaries and teaches them to cultivate resilience while managing stress. As a result, caregivers are better equipped to balance the demands of their roles and continue thriving both at work and in their personal lives.
Offering mental health support.
According to Deloitte survey data, 40% of Gen Zs and 35% of Millennials report feeling stressed or anxious all or most of the time. Not only that, but, “a third or more of respondents who regularly feel stressed or anxious, say their job contributes to their stress levels.” Health coaching provides personalized, mental health support. Unlike other health and care professionals, who might focus specifically on a given condition or symptom, health coaching takes a truly holistic, long-term approach. They address the source of mental health concerns while implementing lifestyle changes that reduce their impact and prevalence. They teach employees manageable strategies that better equip them to manage stress and prevent burnout before it becomes a problem.
What’s more, the impact of health coaching on mental health is backed by science. A recent study on nearly 1,500 participants in the US suffering from moderate levels of anxiety and depression showed a marked decrease in symptoms when working with a mental health coach. Overall, health coaches help support a more resilient workforce, equipping them with critical skills to maintain wellbeing in both their personal and professional lives.
Facilitating active aging.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of working adults ages 65 and older has increased by 117% within 20 years. We’re taught that with older age comes declining health. While data suggests this is largely true — most individuals with at least one chronic condition or multimorbidity are between 60 and 79 years of age — health coaches can help facilitate “active aging.” Active aging introduces appropriate physical and mental challenges that help maintain overall wellbeing, while remaining cognizant of an individual’s unique capabilities and limitations.
Health coaches guide older employees in developing customized fitness plans, managing stress, and improving sleep, all of which contribute to an enhanced quality of life. They focus not only on maintaining physical health but also on fostering mental sharpness and emotional resilience, which are critical for long-term success and fulfillment both in and out of the workplace. This holistic approach enables older employees to remain engaged, productive, and empowered, leading to better retention and a stronger, more diverse workforce. Additionally, by promoting active aging, employers support the longevity of their most experienced employees, ensuring they can continue to contribute meaningfully well into their later years.
As an employer, offering REAL health coaching isn’t just a benefit — it’s a strategic advantage. It’s one of the most flexible, effective benefits you can offer employees and one of your most appealing assets — whether you’re attracting top talent or looking to retain and empower valuable employees across generations.Health coaching meets the diverse needs of your workforce, helping every individual, regardless of age or background, achieve personal growth and fulfillment. This holistic health benefit leads to better health and wellbeing outcomes that shape happier, healthier and more productive employees, ultimately fostering a thriving, more engaged workforce. If you’re not already offering world-class, REAL health coaching services, now is the time to elevate your employee benefits and make a lasting impact. Send us a note to team@yourcoach.health to learn more.