Evidence of the psychometric qualities of a simplified version of the Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale for community-dwelling seniors.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the validity, reliability, and item hierarchy of a modified version of the Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scale using an item-response theory framework and integrating modifications aimed at increasing user-friendliness and promoting better congruence of the scale with public health falls prevention strategies.


METHODS
Cross-sectional study.


METHODS
Community-based.


METHODS
Two hundred community-dwelling seniors involved in an effectiveness study of a falls prevention program. Participants were recruited by community-based organizations.


METHODS
Not applicable.


METHODS
Balance confidence.


RESULTS
The modified ABC scale (called ABC-Simplified [ABC-S] scale) has high internal consistency (reliability index, .86) and good convergent validity (statistically significant associations with perceived balance; performances on the one-leg stance, tandem stance, tandem walking, functional reach, and lateral reach [on the right side] tests; fear of falling; and occurrence of falls in the previous 12 mo). Analyses also showed differing degrees of difficulty across items, allowing for a determination of the scale's item hierarchy.


CONCLUSIONS
The ABC-S scale is a valid and reliable measure for the assessment of balance confidence among community-dwelling seniors. The fact that this measure was validated with high-functioning seniors makes it particularly well-suited for identifying community-dwelling seniors who are beginning to lose confidence in their balance and who could benefit from community falls prevention programs.
Filiatrault
Johanne
J
Institut National de Santé Publique du Québec, Montreal, QC, Canada. johanne.filiatrault@umontreal.ca
Gauvin
Lise
L
Fournier
Michel
M
Parisien
Manon
M
Robitaille
Yvonne
Y
Laforest
Sophie
S
Corriveau
Hélène
H
Richard
Lucie
L
D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control; D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003710:Demography; D005260:Female; D015577:Geriatric Assessment / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D004856:Postural Balance; D011594:Psychometrics / Q000379:methods*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012111:Residence Characteristics; D020377:Self Efficacy; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires