Evaluation of the Late-Life Disability Instrument (LLDI) in Low-Income Older Populations. (April 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Vafaei, Afshin; Gomez, Fernando; Zunzunegui, Maria V.; Guralnik, Jack; Curcio, Carmen L.; Guerra, Ricardo; Alvarado, Beatriz E.
• Is Part Of: Journal of aging and health. Volume 26:Number 3(2014:Apr.)
• Page Start: 495
• Page End: 515
• Publication Date: 2014-04
• Subjects: late-life disability -- older adults -- Latin America -- exploratory factor analysis -- confirmatory factor analysis; Older people -- Health and hygiene -- Periodicals; Geriatrics -- Periodicals; 618.97
• DOI: 10.1177/0898264314523448
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0898-2643

Abstract

Objective: To assess the construct and convergent validity of the 16 items of the Late-Life Disability Instrument (LLDI) in Latin American seniors.Method: Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed to assess the factor structure of frequency and limitation sub-scales of the LLDI. ANOVA and t test were used to determine the convergent and construct validity of the LLDI by exploring associations with physical performance tests, mobility limitations, depression, cognition, self-reported health, as well as with sex, education, and income.Results: Factor analysis resulted in one-factor solution and acceptable model fit. Participants with better physical function, less mobility limitations, better self-reported health, and intact cognition reported more frequent activities and fewer limitations, indicating good convergent and construct validity of our measure.Conclusion: LLDI is a good instrument to assess disability in low-income populations. Further research is needed to include culturally acceptable activities for the frequency sub-scale.