Validity and reliability of the Glittre-ADL test in adults with asthma

Adults with asthma may have limitations in their activities of daily living (ADL) and among the most used tests to assess ADL, performance-based instruments such as the Glittre-Activities of Daily Living (Glittre-ADL) test are available. However, metric properties of this instrument have not yet been investigated in this population.

To verify the construct validity and reliability of the Glittre-ADL test in adults with asthma.

Fifty-eight adults with asthma had their ADL objectively assessed by Glittre-ADL test, which was performed twice by the same rater. Lung function (spirometry), functional exercise capacity (6-minute walk test, 6MWT), and quality of life (St George's Respiratory Questionnaire, SGRQ) were also assessed.

Participants were 31% men; 43 ± 14 years; FEV1 74 ± 18% predicted. Performance in the Glittre-ADL test correlated with the 6MWT (r = -0.61; P < .0001) and had excellent intraclass correlation coefficient ICC_3,1 = 0.95. Standard error of measurement was 23%, and the minimal detectable change was 29 seconds. Furthermore, the learning effect was 11 seconds (5.03%).

The Glittre-ADL test is valid and reliable for assessing ADL in adults with asthma. However, considerable learning effect was observed and therefore the best of two measures can avoid underestimation.