More than a place to do woodwork: a case study of a community-based Men's Shed

Abstract

Background Community-based Men's Sheds programs are an example of a health promotion initiative that aims to promote psychosocial health and wellbeing in older men. A community-based Men's Shed is a large shed that supports men to come together and undertake activities, most commonly woodwork and/or metalwork. This qualitative descriptive study explores men's experiences of participating in a Men's Shed program and how these experiences may impact on their health and wellbeing. Methods A case study of a community-based Men's Shed within a rural community was used to explore men's experiences of participating in a Men's Shed program. Qualitative descriptive methodology was used in this research. The data to build a case study were collected through in-depth interviews with participants involved in the Men's Shed. The qualitative data were analysed thematically. Results The results of this study indicate that Men's Sheds can have a role in promoting the health and wellbeing of men who participate in them by supporting their engagement in activities they enjoy and find meaningful. This, in turn, provides a sense of purpose and identity. The social environment of Men's Sheds leads to the development of positive social relationships with other men and a sense of belonging. Reviewed literature demonstrates the importance of these psychosocial aspects for health and wellbeing. Conclusions Men's Sheds enhance the health and wellbeing of the men who are participant in them. Elements that support Men's Sheds to be health promoting include being inclusive, providing a male-friendly space and recognising the intrinsic health benefits of Men's Sheds.