Preliminary validation study of the Spanish version of the satisfaction with life scale in persons with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Purpose: To assess Life Satisfaction, using the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and to analyze its psychometric properties in Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Method: Persons with MS (n = 84) recruited at the MS Centre of Catalonia (Spain) completed a battery of subjective assessments including the SWLS, the World Health Organization Quality of Life instrument and disability module (WHOQOL-BREF, WHOQOL-DIS) and the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale-Depression (HADS-D); sociodemographic and disability status data were also gathered. Psychometric properties of the SWLS were investigated using standard psychometric methods. Results: Internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha coefficient) was 0.84. A factor analysis using a principal components method showed a one factor structure accounting for 62.6% of the variance. Statistically significant correlations were confirmed between SWLS with WHOQOL-BREF, WHOQOL-DIS and HADS-D. SWLS scores were significantly different between a priori defined groups: probable depressed versus nondepressed and participants perceiving a mild versus severe impact of disability on their lives. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to report on the psychometrics properties of the SWLS in persons with MS. It might be a valuable tool to use in appraising persons with MS through the continuum of care.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• The Spanish version of the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) is a reliable and valid instrument in Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

• The SWLS is able to discriminate between participants with low or high scores on depressive symptoms or disability impact on life.

• SWLS might be useful through the continuum of care in persons with MS, including Rehabilitation Services.

• Life satisfaction
• multiple sclerosis
• reliability
• subjective well-being
• SWLS
• validity

Acknowledgements

Thanks to all the persons with MS who participated in this study. Thanks also to professionals from the Unitat de Neuroimmunologia Clínica and Neurorehabilitació, Centre d’Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya Cemcat, Barcelona, who participated in advertising the study and recruitment of persons with MS.