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Benefits experts are always seeking additional ways to make wellness programs as valuable as possible to employees. After all, not only do the programs help keep employees healthy, but when done right, they can serve as excellent drivers of strong culture and commitment.

And many of these solutions can go beyond financial incentives.

Employee Benefit News spoke with Alexander Domaszewicz, a principal and senior consultant with Mercer. EBN reports that “people are more likely to participate if an activity is easy and accessible. Participation is less likely if an activity is difficult, even if there is money attached to it.”

In addition, employers interest in employee health is moving beyond the office space. Reports EBN: “Employers are now focused on employee health both at work and at home. The latter is even being recognized — such as rewarding someone who plays in an adult soccer league.”

Another direction that can be important for employees: Increase one-on-one interaction. Said Domaszewicz: ““We tried to make everything so digital in the last decade,” but, EBN reports, “employees prefer in-person communication.”

Added Robin Widdis, business unit president and interim wellness director at CBIZ: “Employers are also encouraging employees’ spouses and families to become more involved in their wellness programs. Moving forward, employers are making wellness less about ROI, and more about improving health, productivity and morale.”