In today’s challenging environment, employees are facing increased stress related to holistic wellness and work-life boundaries. They increasingly look to their employers for benefits and programs that support all aspects of their well-being, particularly during unprecedented situations like the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Importance of Disability Insurance
A significant number of employees consider disability insurance and absence-related programs among the most supportive benefits during times of illness or injury. According to MetLife’s April 2020 survey:
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50% of employees highlighted short-term or long-term disability insurance as essential.
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47% of employees cited family caregiver leave as critical support if they or a family member could not work due to a serious illness or injury.
Despite this, many employees feel inadequately covered. Approximately one-third report insufficient disability insurance or caregiver leave to feel fully protected during the pandemic.
How Disability Benefits Help
Disability insurance is designed to replace a portion of income if an employee cannot work due to illness or injury. Beyond financial protection, other employer programs can support return-to-work and overall wellness, including:
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Flexible working hours
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Training and skill development programs
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Financial wellness programs
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Remote work options and reimbursement for home-based tools and equipment
These programs help employees navigate the transition back to work while maintaining their work-life balance.
Employees Are Interested in Expanded Benefits
The pandemic has increased interest in holistic benefits:
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48% of employees agree or strongly agree that COVID-19 will make them more likely to enroll in disability or wellness programs.
This signals a key opportunity for employers to communicate effectively about available benefits, helping employees understand how much coverage they need and providing support that aligns with their holistic well-being.
Employer Takeaways
Employers can support their teams by:
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Increasing communication about disability insurance and related benefits.
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Offering a combination of stay-at-work and return-to-work programs.
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Providing flexible work options to help employees manage personal and professional responsibilities.
By prioritizing these strategies, employers can ensure employees feel protected and supported through challenging times, while fostering a healthier, more productive workforce.
