Finding environments in which to enjoy hobbies and the company of others is vital for our physical and mental health in retirement.
For men who wish to spend time working with their hands, many retirement villages provide the perfect place: the humble men’s shed.
The longstanding component of Australian culture is a benefit to its users in more ways than one.
They’re a place where men can use their skills creatively, are a powerful force in addressing health and wellbeing, and embody the spirit of mateship, says the Australian Men’s Shed Association.
This enhancement of men’s wellbeing is alive and well at Tea Tree Gardens Retirement Village in Adelaide.
Independent living resident Derek Miller has been at the Hope Valley community for over three years.
“I’m a person who can’t just sit and do nothing,” he said.
“I go down to the shed every day at 9am and build toys for charity raffles and things like Easter and Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea.”
(L-R) Tea Tree Gardens residents Gerald Bungey, Derek Miller and George Adams
The shed serves a purpose besides being places to work on hobbies, most importantly being a place where men can get together and talk.
George Adams is a regular user of Tea Tree Gardens’ men’s shed.
“I know more people after living here for three years than I did living in our old place for 50 years,” he said.
“This is like a neighbourhood or a small European village where everybody looks out for each other.”
As more men’s sheds spring up around the country, they continue to be a big draw for many retirement village residents.
“We decided on Tea Tree Gardens mainly because of the men’s shed,” Derek said.
“As soon as I saw the place, my mind was made up to move here.”
For more information about Tea Tree Gardens Retirement Village, click here.
