Corporate housing may bolster productivity, improve health by reducing commute time
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Many working professionals commute long distances on a daily basis or temporarily commute long distances for short-term relocation purposes. As it turns out, they may be better off staying in short term rental apartments or securing other corporate accommodations.
According to a recent study published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine cited by the Pocono Record, long commutes can take a toll on workers' health. The study specifically revealed that the farther the commute is, the higher the chances are that people will suffer from ailments such as poor cardiovascular health.
"It's like a domino effect: The longer people have to commute to work, the more they worry, the more miserable they feel, and the more they suffer from obesity and high blood pressure," reported Amy Leap for the source.
Selecting accommodations that are closer to the office can have benefits, too. Environmentalists call for corporate housing options and walkable neighborhoods. According to Treehugger.com, future sustainability trends predict a demand for higher density, more mixed-use urban design.
Employers should also take interest in encouraging shorter commutes. According to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, workers' productivity suffers as well when they commute long distances.
"Those with long commutes are more tired, more likely to miss due to bad weather, and have lower morale due to the frustrations of traffic and loss of time," UNC reported.