Translation and Psychometric Properties of the Persian Version of the Older Adult Lifestyle Scale

The global increase in older adults necessitates reliable tools to assess lifestyle factors that influence healthy aging. Existing Western lifestyle assessment instruments often lack cultural relevance for non-Western populations, including Iran. This study aimed to translate and assess the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the Older Adult Lifestyle Scale (P-OALS) among community-dwelling older adults in Iran.

In this cross-sectional methodological study, for construct validity assessment, a total of 397 community-dwelling older adults aged 60 years and above were recruited from the city of Babol, Iran. Participants were selected using convenience sampling. The P-OALS was translated using the Forward-Backward method and rigorously evaluated for psychometric properties. The translation process followed WHO guidelines. Face and content validity were evaluated through a panel review conducted by 10 subject matter experts. Additionally, it was further assessed through interviews with a sample of 10 older adults. Construct validity was tested using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Reliability was tested through internal consistency and test-retest stability, while convergent/discriminant validity was analyzed using composite reliability and average variance extracted. The questionnaires were administered by trained researchers through structured face-to-face sessions with participants.

Face validity showed that 90% of items were rated as clear. Expert panel evaluation confirmed acceptable content validity (CVI > 0.79; CVR > 0.62). EFA revealed a robust four-factor structure-Quality of Relationships (6 items), Preventive Behaviors (5 items), Nutrition (4 items), and Physical Activity (4 items)-accounting for 55.4% of the total variance. CFA confirmed excellent model fit (comparative fit index = 0.923, root mean square error of approximation = 0.064, parsimony normed fit index = 0.712). The P-OALS demonstrated strong reliability (α = 0.86, ICC = 0.859) and validity, with all subscales meeting psychometric benchmarks.

The P-OALS is a valid, reliable, and culturally adapted instrument for assessing the lifestyle of older persons residing in Babol, Iran. Its concise format and contextual relevance make it valuable for research and clinical practice. Future studies should explore its applicability in broader populations and longitudinal settings to further establish generalizability.