Turkish Version of Lower Extremity Functional Scale in Elders

Validity and Reliability of Turkish Version of Lower Extremity Functional Scale in Elders

This study was conducted in order to analyze the validity and reliability, and psychometric properties of the Turkish version of the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS-T) in elder adults. The LEFS was translated and cross-culturally adapted to Turkish. Totally 214 elders were included in the study. The LEFS-T, Five-Times-Sit-to-Stand Test (FTSTS), and Falls Efficacy Scale International (FES-I) were applied to all older adults. Item-total correlations of factors and Cronbach alpha internal consistency coefficients were determined to examine the reliability. The relationship between the LEFS-T, FTSTS, and FES-I was analyzed. Exploratory (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used for construct validity. Spearman Correlation Analysis was used for concurrent validity. Davis technique was used to calculate the content validity index. Floor and ceiling effect were calculated. It has been concluded that the LEFS-T has good psychometric qualities and can be recommended as a choice of measurement tool to assess self-reported physical functioning in elder adults.

Purpose: This study was conducted in order to analyze the validity and reliability, and psychometric properties of the Turkish version of the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS-T) in elder adults.

Method: The LEFS was translated and cross-culturally adapted to Turkish. Totally 214 elders were included in the study. The LEFS-T, Five-Times-Sit-to-Stand Test (FTSTS), and Falls Efficacy Scale International (FES-I) were applied to all older adults. Item-total correlations of factors and Cronbach alpha internal consistency coefficients were determined to examine the reliability. The relationship between the LEFS-T, FTSTS, and FES-I was analyzed. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis were used for construct validity. Spearman Correlation Analysis was used for concurrent validity. Davis technique was used to calculate the content validity index. Floor and ceiling effect were calculated.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being 65 years old and older, and ability to speak and read Turkish fluently.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having neurological, cognitive, and communication problems that can affect the lower extremity functionality severely, and elder adults who cannot answer questionnaires due to inability to understand.