The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the wellbeing of Irish Men’s Shed members

• DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daaa113
• Publication Date: 2020-09-17T03:48:02Z
• Authors: Aisling McGrath; Niamh Murphy; Noel Richardson
• Keywords: Pandemic; 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak

Summary COVID-19 disproportionately affects males especially those who are older and more socio-economically disadvantaged. This study assessed wellbeing outcomes among men’s shed members (Shedders) in Ireland at baseline (T1), 3 (T2), 6 (T3) 12 months (T4) response to a 10-week health promotion program ‘Sheds for Life’ (SFL). Two cohorts participated SFL commencing March September 2019. compares the T3 findings from one cohort carried out during pandemic [COVID (n = 185)] with comparator [pre-COVID 195)], completed pre-COVID-19. Questionnaires assessing [life satisfaction, mental health, loneliness, physical activity (PA), self-rated other lifestyle measures] were analyzed both T1, T2 T3. Self-rated Health life satisfaction decreased COVID (p < 0.001), while loneliness scores increased 0.0005). Higher correlated lower ratings, PA 0.001). Days cluster 0.01) urban areas reporting levels than rural 0.05). Those sufficiently active managed maintain not meeting guidelines likely report decreases Shedders experiencing restrictions an risk of poorer loneliness. Support guidance needed safely encourage this back into sheds, settings that protect against positively promote wellbeing. Lay summary The will have wide-reaching implications on wellbeing, particularly vulnerable. Evidence also suggests males. aimed understand impact has had men setting Men’s Sheds Ireland. participating (Sheds Life) different stages followed over time. At follow-up first Cohort experienced whereas second was actively pandemic. We measured using questionnaires, comparing groups differences. found as well higher rates lonely scores. physically become inactive COVID-19. support is Sheds,