On this final day of June – Canada’s Men’s Health Month – we wanted to reflect on the many ways that Men’s Sheds play a vital role in supporting good mental, physical, and social health.
Building connections to support body, mind, and spirit
Getting out to meet and work with peers and friends helps sustain good health. Sheds bring men together and provide opportunities for social engagement, which can help prevent or alleviate depression and anxiety in older men. This happens through the work of Shedders themselves, who determine the types of projects or activities they’re interested in, and collaborate to make them happen.
These connections also foster social inclusion and belonging, with tangible health benefits. For older adults, social isolation and loneliness can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as dementia, depression and functional decline. Engaging in hands-on projects and learning new skills can stimulate the brain, helping to slow cognitive decline and reduce the risk of conditions like dementia.
Men’s Sheds help keep men in physical shape, too. Many Shed activities, such as woodworking, gardening, and DIY projects, encourage physical movement, which can improve cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of heart disease, and maintain mobility. Regular participation in hands-on activities improves coordination, balance, and muscle strength, which can help reduce the risk of falls, a common issue for older men.
An opportunity for education and prevention
Sheds can help men learn more about maintaining their health, often through “health by stealth.” That is, learning can happen indirectly or informally, while men are physically or socially engaged in other activities. Health issues can also be raised for discussion by Shedders themselves.
Men’s Sheds often provide health education and information sessions on common aging issues like prostate health, encouraging regular health check-ups and early detection of problems. Shed members often exchange tips and information on healthy habits, including nutrition and exercise, supporting each other in maintaining healthy lifestyles. The sense of community in Men’s Sheds can support men managing chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, by encouraging them to stay active, adhere to treatments, and share health strategies.
Sustaining healthy communities
The work that Sheds do isn’t just good for the health of their members. Many Sheds undertake projects or volunteer in ways that contribute to the well being of their communities. Working with other local organizations fosters a sense of belonging and resilience, and connections outside the Shed help reinforce the positive experiences men have. Intergenerational engagement and learning also gives Shedders a chance to provide healthy, positive role models for young people.
While not a replacement for mental or community health services, Sheds play an important supportive role, particularly in rural areas. As grassroots, self-organized groups, Sheds reflect the interests of their members and enhance the well being of older men who may not seek out support on their own.
A national conversation
This month of June also marked the next phase in the federal government’s development of a national strategy on men and boys’ health. Over the past few months, more than 5,000 people completed an online survey to help shape the strategy, while hundreds of other people and organizations have provided feedback through roundtable discussions or written submissions.
Improving men’s health care in Canada could save more than $12 billion annually, with additional savings in productivity, according to Movember. Over the next few months, the government will review surveys and other feedback, as Canada prepares to join Australia, the UK, Ireland, South Africa, Malaysia, and Brazil as one of the few countries to have developed a national strategy for the health of men and boys.
Resources
- Men’s Sheds Canada has compiled a list of relevant health research and policy initiatives, as well as relevant organizations working towards improving men’s health and well being.
- MSC has also participated in and compiled numerous studies and reports on the benefits of Men’s Sheds, reflecting their positive impact on a global scale.