Psychometric properties of the Persian version of the Gerotranscendence scale in community-dwelling older adults

ABSTRACT

The psychosocial theory of Gerotranscendence, is proposing an alternative and positive view of aging and states that human development is a lifelong process. Applying the concept of Gerotranscendence into the older adults’ lives may have the potential to provide a more positive view of aging and a better care for a growing population. First; and to do this, we need to use a proper, valid and reliable measure. The purpose of this cross-sectional and methodological study was to assess the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the short-form Gerotranscendence scale (GS-S) in community-dwelling Iranian older adults. First the scale was translated to Persian, and culturally adapted. Then pre-testing and cognitive interviewing implemented in a sample consisted of 10; and stability of the scale in a sample of 30 older adults, respectively. Confirmatory factor analysis and internal consistency of the scale were done with 250 older adults. The three-factor structure was confirmed. The model showed a good fit, and all the indices were satisfactory (RMSEA = 0.063; NNFI = 0.093; CFI = 0.095; IFI = 0.096; GFI = 0.095; and χ2/df = 2). Cronbach’s alpha of the scale was 0.72 and coefficient omega was 0.82. Test-retest reliability (ICC) was 0.88, P < .001; and standard error of measurement was 1.16 (CI = %95). Minimal detectable change (MDC) was 3.2 and minimal important change (MIC) was 1.4. This study supports the use of the GS-S as a measure of life span development among the Iranian older adults.

Acknowledgments

The authors wish to thank Mr. Ali A. Haeri for his support in analyzing the data, and Dr. F. Ahmadi Levin (Uppsala university/Sweden) for her collaboration with the expert panel.

Disclosure statement

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Notes

1. UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs.

Additional information

Funding

This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.