In a rapidly evolving world, technology and AI is already transforming the way we work. It’s no surprise when I say that these advancements will also influence our approach to wellness in the workplace. Even corporate massage itself will transmogrify. After all, it wasn’t too long ago that barbers also doubled as surgeons. As we gaze a decade into the future, we discover inspiring possibilities that lie at the intersection of health, work and technology. Hopefully without the Sweeney Todd aspects.
AI-Powered Personal Wellness Apps
AI is revolutionizing personal health, already offering individualised fitness and wellness plans1. You’re probably wearing an Apple Watch or another similar smart device attached to yoru phone right now.
In the future, AI could curate recommendations tailored to an employee’s work schedule, health data, and stress levels, for a much healthier and a better work-life balance.
Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality
Relaxation Spaces
Imagine taking a break in a tranquil forest or meditating on a mountaintop, all without leaving your workplace. VR and AR technologies2 create immersive relaxation spaces, offering restorative breaks and virtual yoga and meditation sessions for improved mental health.
In fact, while AR systems are currently a bit expensive for individual buyers, having such a system built into a dedicated wellness room at work would be a great investment.
Available VR Hardware & Games Today
Read this LiveScience article to get a sense of how much (or little such a system might cost and where you could source the required VR hardware and apps in 2023.
If you need a human to work with your team.
Biofeedback and Neurofeedback Tools
Biofeedback and neurofeedback technologies provide real-time data on stress levels and cognitive load3. This feedback empowers employees to take breaks when necessary and monitor the efficacy of mindfulness and relaxation exercises.
Telehealth and Virtual Therapy
As the importance of mental health continues to gain recognition, access to virtual therapy and counseling services4 may become a common workplace benefit – providing essential support for employees.
Robotic Massage and Physical Therapy
Robots are no longer confined sci-fi. They’re here, and they could offer on-demand massage and physical therapy services5, helping to alleviate physical stress and strain in the future workplace.
World Robot Conference 2023
Flexible and Remote Working Conditions
The rise of AI and automation (and COVID-19) has already brought about more flexible working conditions6. A greater emphasis on work-life balance and stress management could be the key to a happier and more productive workforce.
AI-Driven Ergonomics
AI has the potential to analyse an employee’s workspace (read about setting up a wellness room) and suggest improvements for optimal physical health and comfort7.
This could minimize the risk of issues like repetitive strain injuries.
Wearable Tech for Health Monitoring
Wearable devices monitor various health metrics8 and provide data-driven insights on health and wellness to employees (and possibly employers – privacy issues aside) – promoting pro-active, real time health management.
Gamification of Wellness
Gamification can encourage healthy habits9. Using AI to create personalised wellness challenges and goals could motivate employees to adopt healthier lifestyles.
Predictive Health Analytics
This one is a little way off, but (just like in the movie, “Minority Report”) – AI can make accurate predictions.
This article blew my mind: AI predicts crime in advance with 90% accuracy
University of Chicago data and social scientists have developed a new algorithm that forecasts crime by learning patterns in time and geographic locations from public data on violent and property crimes. It has demonstrated success at predicting future crimes one week in advance with approximately 90% accuracy.
Probation Officers Professional Association of Indiana
Predictive health analytics, powered by AI and machine learning, will analyse health data and predict potential health issues before they become serious10. The power of AI is in large datasets, so any activity that produces a mass of data is up fro grabs.
Just think about your body – its heartbeat, blood pressure and sugar levels.
AI is the perfect beast to check all of this data and look for preventative measures and early treatment, improving overall health outcomes. Including what you do at work!
The Death of Privacy?
As we step into the future, the integration of technology and AI in workplace wellness offers promising possibilities.
The challenge lies in utilising these advancements in a manner that respects privacy and promotes a healthy work-life balance.
References:
- The Future of Fitness is AI ↩ ↩2
- How Virtual Reality Is Used in Healthcare ↩ ↩2
- Biofeedback and Neurofeedback: A Primer on the Applications of These Technologies in Medicine ↩ ↩2
- Telehealth: A Quarter Trillion-dollar Post-COVID-19 Reality? ↩ ↩2
- Robots in Healthcare: The Future of AI and Automation in Medicine ↩ ↩2
- Flexible Working: The Way Of The Future ↩ ↩2
- AI in Workplace: Ergonomics ↩ ↩2
- Wearable Technology and AI Could Transform the Workplace ↩ ↩2
- Gamifying Health: How to Motivate and Engage Patients ↩ ↩2
- [Predictive Analytics in Health Care](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/well# The Future of Workplace Wellness: Embracing AI and Technology ↩ ↩2
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