International Quality of Life Month: Planning for long-term health and wellness
January is International Quality of Life Month, making it the perfect time for employers to encourage employees and retirees to consider what it truly means to live well, both now and in the future. Quality of life is closely tied to health, financial security, and peace of mind, especially when planning for healthcare needs in retirement.
For employers, this month offers a natural opportunity to help employees and retirees focus on smarter use of healthcare benefits like Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs) and everyday wellness habits that support a healthier future.
Wellness habits that protect quality of life over time
International Quality of Life Month is an opportunity for employers to remind participants that small, consistent wellness choices today can support better health outcomes tomorrow. Consider encouraging habits such as:
1. Planning ahead for healthcare costs with an HRA
A Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) is one way employers can help support long-term healthcare needs while offering flexibility and cost control. HRAs allow employers to contribute funds that participants can use tax-free to reimburse eligible healthcare expenses, such as:
Health insurance premiums (depending on plan design)
Out-of-pocket medical expenses
Prescription drugs
Preventive care and qualified healthcare services
From a participant’s perspective, HRAs can help reduce the financial burden of ongoing healthcare costs and provide greater choice in how and where care is received. From an employer’s perspective, HRAs offer a sustainable way to provide healthcare support without the volatility of traditional group plans.
When used strategically, HRAs can play a key role in preserving quality of life by making healthcare costs more predictable and manageable.
2. Supporting mental and emotional wellbeing
Mental health is a critical component of quality of life. Offering counseling and stress management programs can improve overall health and help your employees stay engaged and active.
In addition to traditional healthcare benefits, a Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA) can provide flexible support for mental and emotional wellbeing. Depending on plan design, LSAs may be used for a variety of expenses such as:
Mindfulness or meditation apps
Stress management or resilience programs
Fitness or wellness classes that support mental health
Financial planning or coaching services that reduce stress and improve peace of mind
3. Staying physically active
Encouraging physical activity can help employees maintain long‑term health and reduce avoidable healthcare costs.
LSAs can also play a role in encouraging physical activity by helping cover eligible wellness-related expenses, such as:
Gym or fitness memberships
Exercise or movement classes
Home fitness equipment
A month to reflect and plan ahead
International Quality of Life Month is about creating a foundation for a healthier, more secure future. By combining thoughtful benefit strategies like HRAs and LSAs with proactive wellness habits, organizations can help their employees and retirees maintain a high quality of life at any age.