US Men's Sheds: A prescription for social connection

Presentation Summary: Men’s Sheds are community-based organizations that provide a place for men to come together, share skills and life experiences, connect with one another and the broader community, and rediscover a sense of purpose and belonging. The health risks of loneliness and social isolation are well-documented and include an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, depression, suicide and premature death. The American College of Lifestyle Medicine identifies social connection as one of the six pillars of health, and the US Surgeon General released a health advisory in 2023 to raise awareness of the impact of social connection on individual and community health. Resources to address loneliness and social isolation are limited, but the US Men’s Sheds organization offers a valuable solution for fostering social connection in a vulnerable population. The Men’s Sheds organization provides a gathering place for older men to reconnect with their peers and their local community. The health benefits of participation in a Men’s Shed include improved mental and physical health, increased social connection and community engagement, increased confidence and self-esteem, a renewed sense of purpose, and the promotion of positive masculinity. The objective is to raise awareness about the U.S. Men’s Shed organization and its role in addressing loneliness, social isolation, and suicide risk among older men. Although the connection between social engagement and health is becoming better understood, healthcare providers often lack resources to help patients who suffer from social isolation. The U.S. Men’s Shed organization offers a unique, real-time solution to combat social isolation in older men. By the end of the session, the audience will gain a deeper understanding of the organization's impact and leave with practical steps and a blueprint to establish a Men’s Shed in their own communities.