Contrary to the stereotype of Generation Z not wanting to work, new research has shown most Gen Z employees are reporting working longer hours and worsening eye health as a result.1

The research, conducted for the United States-based VSP Vision Care, polled 800 human resource benefit leaders and 800 additional full-time employees at US organisations.

The survey revealed employees generally clock up an average of 96 hours of screen time per week, with more than a third coming from work. Remote and hybrid workers log more than seven hours of screen time each day, compared to just 5.5 hours for on-site employees.

On Gen Z specifically, 82% report working longer hours, and 54% said this has impacted their eye health.

The report found that 50% of the workers surveyed have at least one eye issue, for example blurred or poor vision, eye strain and fatigue, or dry and itchy eyes. Workers struggling with these issues report negative impacts on their productivity (63%), ability to focus (55%), and mental health (42%).

“In our increasingly digital world, it’s important for employers today to view vision benefits as part of a holistic approach to health and preventive health care plans for employees,” said VSP Vision Care President Kate Renwick-Espinosa.

Reference
1. VSP Vision, New research from VSP Vision Care and Workplace Intelligence finds 82% of Gen Z employees work nights and weekends, 54% report declining eye health, media release, 21 May 2024, available at: vspvision.com/newsroom/eye-health-and-wellness/vision-care/new-research-from-vsp-visioncare-and-workplace-intelligence-reportdeclining-eye-health [accessed May 2024].