Suchergebnisse

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore older men's perceptions of the health and wellbeing benefits of participating in men's sheds.Design/methodology/approachQualitative semi-structured interviews with eight men aged 65 and over from men's sheds in London. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed by hand, and analysis was conducted through coding of the transcripts.FindingsThe results of this study suggested that men's sheds improved older men's perceived level of social interaction, men's outlook, led to self-reported improvements in depression, and all perceived themselves to be fitter since joining. Despite the research being conducted in an urban area, it highlighted the lack of prior community engagement.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample size used in the research was small and may not be representative of other men's sheds in different areas, therefore further research with a larger sample should be conducted.Practical implicationsA health policy dedicated to males which includes the promotion and funding of men's sheds, such as in Ireland, should be considered by the government. In addition, clinical commissioning groups should recognise men's sheds as a non-clinical alternative for their patients through social prescribing in general practice. Finally, in order to achieve the World Health Organisation initiative of creating "age friendly cities" community groups such as men's sheds need to be promoted and further utilised.Originality/valueThere has been little research in the UK.

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence that volunteering before medical school with older people in a care home has on the perceptions of older people.


Design/methodology/approach
Eight medical students answered an anonymous questionnaire relating to their experiences of volunteering in a care home before medical school. This was combined with an analysis of the relevant literature.


Findings
All the students had initially volunteered to enhance their CV for medical school. After volunteering, they had a greater realisation of the variety of older people. They also gained a number of transferable skills related to communicating with older people, especially those with cognitive impairment. The greatest learning experience was around the issues to do with dementia.


Research limitations/implications
The research is based on eight students although they were from different areas.


Practical implications
It would be beneficial if care homes could be more proactive in encouraging prospective medical students to volunteer. Medical schools could also provide clearer advice or take a more active stance such as encouraging prospective students to volunteer with older people. Further research should be with a larger sample to gain insight into varying perspectives. It would also be useful to conduct research into older adults' attitudes towards the contribution of potential medical students to their own lives and to the home.


Social implications
Volunteering before medical school should be encouraged as it will enhance the chances of getting a place as well as being an eye opening experience and equip them with lifelong skills.


Originality/value
Original.