Men encouraged to get their engines checked

THE Torquay Men’s Shed is helping locals keep their mind and body serviced with a free men’s health check next week.

An audiologist, registered nurse, physio and pharmacist will all be on hand at the Torquay group’s base next Wednesday to provide a tune up as part of the Spanner in the Works program.

Member Leigh Marshall said it was the first time the Australian Men’s Shed Association would host a program in Torquay.

“When we’ve conducted the spanner program in the past we usually have a number of men discover they have hearing loss, high blood pressure, and sleep Apnea problems, as well as mental health issues, that they didn’t understand,” he said.

The event was originally scheduled to run in July but was postponed due to a lack of available registered nurses (RN’s), but a callout on social media brought a flood of offers, with seven getting in touch to volunteer their time.

“It’s so inspiring and uplifting to have these wonderful people – who already work so hard to keep us safe – yet are still prepared to volunteer a day of their time to help us improve Men’s Health and Wellbeing,” Mr Marshall said.

 

The program includes a private one-on-one with a nurse for around 15 minutes where issues such as mental health, prostate and diabetes will be assessed, after which an audiologist can do a hearing test and a pharmacist can conduct a sleep test.

Local physio Matthew Henderson will feature as guest speaker and discuss the benefits of exercise for older men, covering topics such as how to improve core strength and balance to help prevent falls, and improve mental and physical health and wellbeing.

Mr Marshall said it’s not uncommon to come across older men who’ve not had a health check-up in more than five years, but are greatly relieved when they do.

“Some men are with the nurse for 30 minutes or more, so if they need this time to discuss their particular issues we allow that time, there are no time limits.”

The event is further being supported by a $500 donation from Surf Coast Hearing, and catering from the Surf Coast Shire Council.

Spanner in the Works is at the Torquay Community Men’s Shed, Wednesday, August 17 from 9am to 4pm.

For more information or to book a spot contact Leigh Marshall on 0400 009 041.