Mediterranean nutrition and physical activity education program at deaf and hard of hearing community

Abstract

Abstract Background Today's eating reality includes a more westernized dietary pattern which seems to erode sensitive groups of our populations, such as people with disabilities. Deaf and hard of hearing people(DAHOHP) are a marginalized community in our country, whose access to the health system, health education, nutrition and exercise is limited. Our aim was to promote health education, focusing on Mediterranean diet and physical activity, through an alternative approach, that of the Greek sign language. Methods A three-day training program was created for the members of the Association of deaf and hard of hearing persons in Central Greece. Analysis of the nutritional profile of everyone was performed and an in-depth presentation of all aspects of the Mediterranean nutrition was showed. Furthermore, an experiential training on the size of food portions of all categories was performed and information and recommendations on physical activity were given. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed by the MedDietScore (range 0-55), Body Mass Index (BMI) and frequency of food consumption were evaluated. Results A total of 25 individuals (25-70 years old, 62% men) participated in the program. The average BMI was 26.2 kg/m2 in women and 25.9 k/m2 in men. Increased body weight was observed in women, whereas in men it was normal. The average questionnaire score was 31/55 for women and 29.6/55 for men, which indicates a good compliance with the Mediterranean-Diet in both. Women consumed smaller portions and fewer meals in all food groups/day, whereas men showed a high intake of alcohol/day. Conclusions Concerning DAHOHP's knowledge and adherence at the Mediterranean nutrition pattern, a good compliance was observed. However, hearing loss tends to disrupt interpersonal communications. Consequently, it severely restricts/isolates such individuals to their own closed groups with possibly experiencing diminished self-esteem and becoming more vulnerable to abuse. Key messages A need to promote health and dietary-behavior modification in people with disabilities such as DAHOHP, is obvious and immediate, by exploring incentives to improve their quality-of-life.