Men in sheds - life long therapy

In retirement, men's sheds are an essential, but often over-looked need.

According to studies over the last 10 years led by Dr Leon Earle, who has served as a Professor and visiting Professor of Gerontology in five national and overseas universities, sheds provide an enduring sense of purpose and identity. They bring back warm memories to men and it’s important to build on what they have got rather than what they have lost.

He says aged care homes cater for mostly female residents. Men who move into nursing homes are therefore faced with spending time with a lot of women, who live longer, sitting in pretty lounge rooms with varied activities, most of which are geared towards women’s preferences.

Dr Earle will be talking about the benefits of men in sheds at The Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency’s Better Practice seminar in Brisbane on 29 and 30 September. He will present a range of findings that provide humour, sensitivity and challenges for aged care and health professionals

“For elderly men, particularly those with dementia, a private place to potter at their own pace could be a lifeline to positive ageing,” he said. “Research has found most men have a personal quest to be creative and resourceful in their sheds for as long as possible.

“The shed is a therapeutic centre because it gives men a sense of purpose. It’s a centre of identity because it links men with their past, present and future.

“Every nursing home should have a shed,” he said.

Dr Earle will be one of 50 speakers at the Better Practice seminar, providing positive case studies and initiatives to improve the quality of care in aged care homes.

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Dr Leon Earle is available for interview. Contact numbers below to arrange.

A successful shed project has been set up for the residents at Nambour’s Sundale Garden Village. More information is available from John Bruggerman, Care Centre Manager on 0427 098 266.


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