How Employers Can Get Involved

This section helps employers address the impact of end-of-life issues on their employees by serving as:

• A clearinghouse of information and resources regarding the development of employee benefit programs related to end-of-life issues
• A vehicle to obtain materials related to end-of-life issues
• A vehicle to sponsor Five Wishes

No one knows how much loss in productivity and morale, or illness associated with end-of-life situations costs the average employer. We do know, however, that these losses can be mitigated by creating a workplace environment that supports employees dealing with death and bereavement issues.

Reasons for Starting an End-of-Life Program

• Research has shown that work-life programs positively affect the bottom line of an employer's balance sheet by fostering loyalty, morale and productivity of the workforce.

• Companies that have started end-of-life programs report a decrease in medical, mental health and substance abuse claims as well as a decrease in mistakes and an increase in productivity.

• An increasing number of workers are actively involved in providing care for a family member - approximately one out of five employees. With an increasing aging population, more workers will be addressing end-of-life issues associated with this caregiving.

• Dealing with grief not only affects the worker directly experiencing a loss, but affects his or her co-workers as well.

• Managers and supervisors are better able to support and manage a work team with the enhanced resources of an end-of-life program.

• A workplace end-of-life program demonstrates a company's commitment to the needs of its workforce, and therefore is an excellent recruitment tool.