Insurance Company's Group Benefits Division Warns of Disabling Illnesses and Accidents
"We are warning workers about wintertime wellness risks and urging them to take steps now to protect their health and their wealth," said Glenn Shapiro, vice president of claims for The Hartford's Group Benefits Division. "In today's tough economy, a disability that lasts even a couple weeks could be a financial hardship for many Americans." Winter is a wonderland for disabling illnesses and accidents.
Claims due to depression, respiratory illnesses and fractures jump in January but not before a spike in good cheer and a dip in claims around the holidays, according to an analysis of short-term disability claims by the United States seller of group disability insurance.
The Hartford's analysis of more than one million short-term disability claims over the past five years found claims are at their lowest level overall in November and December. The New Year then brings a flurry of disability claims related to depression.
"The holiday season can be a stressful time of year. But studies show most Americans are happy when they're celebrating with family and friends," Shapiro said. "Our claims records back that up. Depression claims drop to their lowest point in December and then climb in January."
Employers need to understand depression is a challenge workers need help in overcoming. Not only are workers trying to beat the blues in the dead of winter, they are struggling with sniffles and sneezes. Claims due to respiratory illnesses soar in January and peak in February.
"Everyone knows wintertime is cold-and-flu season. But our research shows respiratory illnesses are not to be taken lightly. They keep many workers off the job, making this a major concern for the financial health of businesses, too," Shapiro said.
Overall, accident-related disability claims peak in the summertime. However, there's another secondary spike in January of accident-related claims for workers in the Northeast and Midwest.
"Inclement weather is a key factor making these two regions disability danger zones during the winter," Shapiro said. "Basic safety precautions can help prevent most of the accidents and injuries that can happen. We encourage residents in these two regions to exercise extreme caution while traveling during storms and use the appropriate protective gear for winter sports at all times, such as wearing a helmet when skiing."
Shapiro added employers can lend a helping hand in keeping their workers happy and healthy and offers these tips for business owners:
1. Don't let stress drain productivity. Provide employees with coping techniques and tools, such as an Employee Assistance Program. You'll also find stress tips on The Hartford's Group Benefits Website such as staying active even during this frigid time of year.
2. Avoid confusion about absences. Ensure your team is familiar with key company policies on topics, such as storm closings and telecommuting. (workersxzcompxzkit) 3.
Get ready. Arm your workforce with information about disability benefits, just in case they experience a disabling injury or illness this winter. The Hartford's research has found troubled economic times are a great time for employers to emphasize income protection. Workers can estimate their coverage needs at TheHartfordatwork.com, and employers can prepare by having plans to accommodate recuperating workers.
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