Validity and Reliability of the Swedish Version of the Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale in People with Chronic Stroke.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the validity and reliability of the Swedish version of the Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scale in people >1 year after stroke.

METHOD

In a multi-centre study design, using initial cross-sectional data collection with follow-up, the timed up-and-go (TUG) test, 10 m timed walk (10TW), and 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) were performed; ABC scale and Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) were completed; and falls history data were collected during one session. One week later, the ABC scale was sent to participants for a second rating. Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated, and reliability was assessed via the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach alpha.

RESULTS

A convenience sample of 67 people was included (mean age 68 y). The median score for the ABC scale changed from 57 at the first rating to 43 at the second; 19 participants (28%) reported falls during the previous 3 months. Scores on the ABC scale were moderately correlated with the TUG (r=-0.48), 10TW (r=-0.52), 6MWT (r=0.45), and SF-36 physical component summary score (r=0.43). Internal consistency was high for the ABC scale at test and retest (α=0.95-0.97). The ICC was 0.82 (95% CI, 0.72-0.88).

CONCLUSIONS

The Swedish version of the ABC scale is a valid and reliable measure for investigating balance confidence in people >1 year after stroke.