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Functional autonomy measurement system: development of a social subscale
E Pinsonnault1, J Desrosiers, N Dubuc
1Research Centre on Aging, Sherbrooke Geriatric University Institute, 1036 Belvédère Sud, Sherbrooke, J1H 4C4, Québec, Canada. eugenie.pinsonnault@usherbrooke.ca
Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics
|September 27, 2003
Summary
Researchers developed a new social functioning subscale for the Functional Autonomy Measurement System (SMAF). This reliable tool enhances the assessment of functional autonomy in older adults, aiding healthcare professionals.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Health Services Research
- Psychometrics
Background:
- Assessing functional autonomy in older adults is crucial for effective healthcare.
- Existing measurement systems may lack comprehensive social functioning assessment.
- Social functioning is a key component of overall well-being and independence in aging populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate the interrater reliability of a new social functioning subscale for the Functional Autonomy Measurement System (SMAF).
- To enhance the comprehensive assessment of functional autonomy by incorporating a dedicated social functioning measure.
Main Methods:
- Expert consultations using focus groups and nominal groups across Quebec, Canada, and France.
- Development of a six-item subscale based on expert consensus.
- Two interrater reliability studies conducted with older adults experiencing functional autonomy loss, in both institutional and home settings.
Main Results:
- The initial interrater reliability study yielded a 60% agreement and an Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) of 0.70.
- The second interrater reliability study demonstrated improved reliability with 74% agreement and an ICC of 0.83.
- Preliminary findings indicate good reliability for the social functioning subscale.
Conclusions:
- The newly developed social functioning subscale for the SMAF demonstrates good interrater reliability.
- Further research is necessary to establish the validity of the social functioning subscale.
- The enhanced SMAF, including this subscale, is expected to provide a more complete profile of functional autonomy for clinicians and researchers, potentially improving care for older individuals.