Convergent and discriminant validity of the Minimal Eating Observation Form - version II: a cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Speech and Hearing Sciences
• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• The Minimal Eating Observation Form - Version II (MEOF-II) is a validated screening tool for eating difficulties.
• Its psychometric robustness makes it suitable for clinical use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the convergent and discriminant validity of the MEOF-II.
• To compare MEOF-II with other established instruments for dysphagia, activity, and participation.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 100 participants (mean age 72) with conditions like COPD, Parkinson's disease, MS, or stroke.
• Assessed eating ability using MEOF-II, Dysphagia Handicap Index (DHI), 4-question test (4QT), Volume-Viscosity Swallow Test (V-VST), FEES with Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS), Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS), and Barthel Index (BI).
• Analyzed associations using Spearman's correlation coefficient, hypothesizing moderate correlations for MEOF-II with most measures and weak correlations with PAS and FOIS.

Main Results:

• 78% of participants experienced eating difficulties per MEOF-II.
• MEOF-II total scores showed moderate correlations with DHI, BI, 4QT, and V-VST volume.
• Weak correlations were observed between MEOF-II and V-VST dysphagia/viscosity, PAS, and FOIS, with 83% of hypothesized correlation strengths confirmed.

Conclusions:

• The MEOF-II is a holistic and objective screening tool that aligns with subjective patient experiences.
• It effectively identifies individuals needing further eating difficulty assessment.
• The MEOF-II does not specifically assess penetration or aspiration risk.