The Sustainability of a Workplace Wellness Program That Incorporates Gamification Principles: Participant Engagement and Health Benefits After 2 Years.

Abstract

To evaluate the results of a workplace wellness program that incorporates gamification principles. In this prospective cohort study, the participation rate and observed health outcomes were evaluated after approximately 2 years. All permanent employees (n = 775) of a national company located in Canada were eligible to participate. The wellness program included web-based challenges (team or individual) incorporating gamification strategies to improve exercise, nutrition, weight reduction, and mental health management behaviors. The primary outcomes were employee participation rates. The secondary pre-specified outcomes were the sustained benefits of the program on physical and mental health measures. Participation rates in the health screenings were 78% (baseline), 54% (year 1), and 56% (year 2). Participation in the 4 team web-based challenges ranged from 33% to 68% with 76% to 86% of participants tracking their activity on at least half of the days. After 2 years, there were significant clinical improvements in systolic blood pressure (-1.3mm Hg), total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio (-0.14), glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c; -0.1%), weekly physical activity (+264 Metabolic Equivalents [METs]), perceived stress score (-17%), insomnia severity index (-16%), general fatigue (-10%), and reductions in the cardiovascular age gap (-0.3 years). Greater benefits occurred among employees at higher risk. Workplace wellness programs that evolve over time and focus primarily on fun and competitive challenges may support long-term participation, behavior change, and sustained improvements in clinical outcomes.