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During the Covid-19 pandemic, remote work became the norm for millions. However, a model of the future freelancer presented by scientists looks so alarming that it might drive many back to the office.
How Will Remote Work Impact Freelancers’ Health in the Future?
With swollen eyes, a hunched back, and fingers resembling claws, this is how experts envision remote workers in the year 2100. The model, named Anna, paints a rather grim picture of future freelancers.
It vividly illustrates numerous physical ailments that will arise from constant technology use and poor posture. This model also highlights potential mental health issues, as noted by specialists from Furniture at Work in an interview with the Daily Mail.
The team of experts created Anna after a study from the University of Leeds revealed that one-third of office workers in the UK lack a dedicated workspace at home. In developing the model of future remote workers, they utilized scientific research and statements from health professionals that outlined how to visualize the consequences of inadequate workspaces.
Working from bed has taken a toll on Anna, resulting in a hunched back and raised shoulders. The future freelancer also has red, swollen eyes from staring at a monitor all day. Long hours spent with her hand on the mouse have transformed her fingers into permanent claws. Anna has also fallen victim to weight gain and a weakened immune system due to a lack of fresh air, anxiety, and depression.
Based on the findings, health experts urge freelancers to take measures to stay healthy while working from home. As Brian Clark, founder of United Medical Education, points out, remote workers should take regular breaks to move their bodies and avoid back and neck pain.
Sara Gibson, director of Proactive Healthcare, recommends following the “20-20-20” rule. She believes this is a great way to care for your eyes if you spend long hours staring at a screen. Every 20 minutes, you should look away from the monitor for 20 seconds and focus on something 20 feet away.
Mr. Clark advises creating a dedicated workspace for regular remote work. He believes having a separate work area with ergonomic furniture is also crucial for establishing clear boundaries between work and personal time.
What Will Future Gamers Look Like?
In addition to Anna, experts have also created Michael—a grotesque model of a pale, hunched gamer of the future. This image demonstrates how prolonged hours spent playing video games can affect avid gamers in 20 years.
Michael the gamer has bloodshot eyes, a wrinkled skull, and blisters on his hands. Experts assert that this is what any gamer will look like in two decades if they don’t take care of themselves while gaming. This cautionary vision was created by researchers based on global reports about the physical consequences of gamers’ lifestyles.
Experts report that self-isolation due to the coronavirus has led to a boom in online gaming. Estimates suggest that gamers are spending nearly 19% more time playing. Despite pushback from scientists and the industry, the WHO now recognizes “gaming addiction” as an official psychological disorder.
To develop the model of Michael, researchers reviewed reports from various health organizations. This allowed them to assess the potential consequences of gamers’ lifestyles. To avoid becoming like Michael, the team of experts offers gamers several strategies for better self-care. These recommendations include regular stretching, balanced nutrition, and staying hydrated.
