Building Purpose and Belonging Shoulder-to-Shoulder: Exploring the Social and Emotional Impacts of the Squamish Men's Shed.

BACKGROUND

Older men face significant health inequities compared to women, with the transition to retirement often exacerbating these differences.

OBJECTIVE

This study explored the benefits of participation in the Squamish Men's Shed (SMS) in British Columbia, Canada.

METHODS

Using a case study design, semistructured interviews were conducted with 12 members aged 55 and older.

FINDINGS

Thematic analysis identified four overarching themes: A Meaningful Use of Time, The Desire to Give Back, Finding Friendship Within the Shed, and Well-Being as a By-Product. Findings described the Shed as a valuable space to maintain structure and purpose postretirement, foster community engagement, and cultivate social connection. While mental health was rarely an explicit motivation for participation, members described enhanced well-being as an indirect outcome. The Shed also provided opportunities for intergenerational contribution, reinforcing a sense of usefulness and generativity.

DISCUSSION

The findings highlight the Shed's potential as a community-based model that promotes men's mental health rather than formalized interventions.