Quality of Life, Health Education and Language Training Programs: The Case of Roma People

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics of the quality of life of Roma people who have been following language training programs. Fifteen adults coming from Roma population (8 females and 7 males), who had attended a language training program. The content of this language training program included topics related with health education, nutrition and exercise issues. Qualitative methodology was followed and content analysis was used in order to analyze data. A semi-structured interview was developed with open-ended questions. Items were related with health, eating and exercise habits and opinions. The results showed that most participants (10 to 15) adopt unhealthy eating behaviors and sedentary way of life, like consuming soft drinks with a lot of sugar, having often fast food and being not physical active. However, content analysis revealed that Roma were aware, to some extent, which foods are considered as healthy or unhealthy. Also, the majority of participants were positive, indicating that they observed changes in their diet and daily habits after following the programs. To conclude, Roma people generally think that the educational program was very useful and helped them a lot in their daily lives.