Assessment of the severity of dementia: validity and reliability of the Chinese (Cantonese) version of the Hierarchic Dementia Scale (CV-HDS).

BACKGROUND

With the rapid growth of the older population, early detection of cognitive deficits is crucial in slowing down functional deterioration of the elderly persons.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the validity and reliability of the Chinese (Cantonese) version of the Hierarchic Dementia Scale (CV-HDS) for Chinese older persons in Hong Kong.

METHODS

The HDS was translated into Cantonese Chinese. The content and cultural validity were evaluated by six expert panel members. Sixty-two participants with diagnosis of dementia were recruited for evaluation. Inter-rater reliability, test-retest reliability, internal consistency and concurrent validity were examined.

RESULTS

The CV-HDS demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties. inter-rater reliability and test-retest reliability were high (alpha=0.89 and alpha=0.94 respectively). High value of Cronbach's alpha (alpha=0.94) demonstrated good internal consistency. The concurrent validity of CV-HDS, through correlation with its scores with that of the Chinese version of Mini Mental Status Examination, was established (ranged from r=0.58 to r=0.78, p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The CV-HDS is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing severity of cognitive impairment in Cantonese speaking Chinese people with dementia. It facilitates treatment planning to optimize the effects of functional training and rehabilitation.