Futures

Men’s Sheds: A Global Movement for Men’s Health and Social Wellbeing, (from page 20231119.)

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Summary

Men’s sheds are non-profit community organizations that provide spaces for craftwork and social interaction, originating in Australia in the 1980s to improve the health and wellbeing of older men. The movement has expanded globally, with over 900 sheds in Australia and many in countries like the UK, US, and Canada. The slogan “Shoulder To Shoulder” reflects the social aspect of these sheds, where men engage in informal learning and mentoring. The first men’s shed was established in 1993 by Maxine Chaseling in South Australia. Men’s sheds aim to address men’s health disparities and have been linked to improved mental health outcomes. They receive support from various government and community organizations, promoting social engagement among older men and addressing issues like diabetes and dementia.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Expansion of Men’s Sheds Men’s sheds are increasingly accommodating individuals of all genders and ages. From male-only spaces to inclusive environments for all genders and ages. Men’s sheds will be community hubs promoting inclusivity and diverse social interaction. A growing understanding of mental health and wellness for all genders. 4
Inter-generational Mentoring Men’s sheds are becoming venues for mentoring across generations. From traditional age-specific groups to mixed-age mentoring environments. Men’s sheds will foster stronger community ties through inter-generational relationships. The need for knowledge transfer and support between generations. 4
Research Partnerships Academics are collaborating with men’s sheds for health and social research. From informal gatherings to recognized research venues. Men’s sheds will be integral in academic research on men’s health issues. Increased focus on evidence-based approaches to improve men’s health. 4
Health by Stealth Men’s sheds provide a subtle approach to improve men’s health. From overt health interventions to integrated health support within community activities. Men’s sheds will contribute significantly to reducing male health disparities. The recognition of social environments as key to health improvements. 5
Virtual Sheds Emergence of online platforms for men’s shed activities and communications. From physical interaction to hybrid models incorporating virtual participation. Men’s sheds will have global reach, connecting diverse communities through technology. Advancements in technology allowing for remote engagement and support. 3

Concerns

name description relevancy
Men’s Mental Health Support Lack of ongoing support for men’s mental health, especially among older men, may lead to increased isolation and poor health outcomes. 4
Gender Bias in Health Services Continuing gender biases in health care may exacerbate disparities impacting men’s health and wellness. 5
Access to Health Information Limited access to health information for older men may hinder their ability to manage health conditions. 3
Cultural Attitudes Towards Men Negative cultural attitudes towards men can affect their willingness to seek help for health issues. 4
Underrepresentation in Research Underrepresentation of men’s health issues in medical research can prevent the development of effective interventions. 5
Diabetes Awareness Among Men Growing rates of undiagnosed diabetes among men necessitate targeting awareness and educational efforts through community programs. 4
Integration of Virtual Resources The need for better integration of online sheds and virtual community resources to support remote members is rising. 3

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Community Engagement Men’s sheds serve as community hubs, fostering social interaction and collaboration among men of various ages. 5
Informal Learning The concept of ‘shedagogy’ emphasizes informal learning among men in collaborative environments, enhancing skills through peer interaction. 4
Intergenerational Mentoring Sheds facilitate mentoring relationships between older and younger men, promoting knowledge transfer and social bonding. 4
Health Awareness Men’s sheds focus on health issues like diabetes and dementia, leveraging peer support to address men’s health disparities. 5
Cultural Shifts in Masculinity The movement supports a redefinition of masculinity, encouraging men to engage in emotional discussions and community support. 4
Virtual Community Building The emergence of virtual sheds allows members to connect online, expanding participation and support for men in remote areas. 3
Mental Health Improvement Men’s sheds contribute to better mental health outcomes and happiness among participants through social interaction and purposeful activities. 5

Technologies

name description relevancy
Men’s Sheds Community spaces aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of men through craftwork, social interaction, and mentoring. 5
Shedagogy A new approach to informal learning among men in shed-like environments, focusing on peer support and shared experiences. 4
Virtual Sheds Online platforms that enable remote communities to communicate and engage in activities related to men’s health and wellbeing. 4
Inter-generational Mentoring Programs within men’s sheds that facilitate mentoring relationships between older and younger men, enhancing community bonds. 4
Health by Stealth An approach used in men’s sheds that promotes health improvement through social engagement rather than direct health interventions. 5
Community Health Initiatives Collaborative efforts between men’s sheds and health organizations to address specific health issues like diabetes and dementia. 5

Issues

name description relevancy
Mental Health of Older Men Men’s sheds have been shown to improve mental health outcomes for older men, indicating a need for more such initiatives. 5
Inter-generational Mentoring The concept of mentoring younger generations through men’s sheds is growing, highlighting a shift towards community-centered learning. 4
Health Disparities in Males Men face worse health outcomes than women; men’s sheds may help address these disparities by promoting health awareness. 5
Diabetes Awareness Men’s sheds are becoming platforms for addressing male diabetes, indicating a need for focused health interventions. 4
Community Support for Disabled Men Approximately 30% of shedders are disabled, showing the need for inclusive community support systems. 4
Cultural Attitudes Towards Men’s Health Men’s sheds help counter negative cultural attitudes towards men’s health, promoting a healthier dialogue. 4
Virtual Community Engagement The emergence of virtual sheds indicates a shift towards online community engagement and support for men. 3
Growing Popularity of Men’s Sheds Worldwide The expansion of men’s sheds globally suggests a rising awareness of the need for male-focused community spaces. 4