Researchers have created a model showing what people who work from home could look like at the turn of the century - and it’s not a pretty sight.
Many of us are now working from home more often, following the Covid-19 pandemic where remote working was mandatory for millions of non-key workers.
But research has revealed that while this is the new normal, many of us are yet to set up a proper dedicated work area, with some folks working from their sofas or even their beds.
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And so, it’s time to meet Anna - she’s been created by researchers from Furniture at Work to show us what we run the risk of looking like by 2100.
Poor Anna doesn’t look in the best nick. She’s got a hunchback, dark, swollen eyes and her hands have turned a bit claw-like.
Never mind 2100, I'm not far off this now, to be honest with you all.
Anna was created following research from the University of Leeds, which found that a third of people who work from home in the UK don’t have a dedicated workspace, which could lead to problems later down the line.
Furniture at Work explained: “Anna displays many physical effects because of consistent use of technology, screen exposure and poor posture, as well as highlighting potential mental health issues.
“To visualise the effects of not having a proper place to work at home, Furniture at Work used scientific research and worked with healthcare experts to reveal what the remote worker of the future could look like.”
Anna’s earned herself a hunched back from working from her bed, while her eyes are red and sore from staring at a screen all day.
She’s also put weight on and has a weak immune system due to inefficient fresh air and exercise.
Experts are urging those who work from home to implement some measures to keep themselves healthy and avoid turning out like Anna.
Brian Clark, Founder of United Medical Education, said: “Remote workers should take regular breaks to stretch and move their bodies to help avoid back and neck pain.”
He also advises setting up a proper workspace to use when working from home.
He added: “Setting up a designated workspace with ergonomic furniture is also important for establishing clear boundaries between work and personal time.”
While Sarah Gibson, Director of Proactive Healthcare, recommends following the '20-20-20' rule to give your eyes a break.
She said: “Following the 20-20-20 rule is a great way to look after your eyes if you spend long periods staring at screens.
“Look away from your screen every 20 minutes for 20 seconds and focus on something 20 feet away.”
Claire Reid