The Minimal Eating Observation Form-II (MEOF-II): cross-cultural validation of the Chinese version for people with stroke.

RATIONALE, AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: Eating difficulties are common among patients affected by stroke. A valid, reliable instrument for assessing eating difficulties in people with stroke is needed. The aim of this study was to translate the Minimal Eating Observation Form - version II (MEOF-II) for patients with stroke into Chinese and to comprehensively evaluate its reliability and validity.

METHODS

The scale of the original MEOF-II form was translated into Chinese using the cross-culture translation method, and 125 participants with stroke were assessed. Data were analysed by content validity index, Cronbach's alpha, correlations and exploratory factor analysis (EFA).

RESULTS

Reliability and validity were demonstrated for the scale. A three-factor structure was illustrated by EFA, and construct validity was demonstrated by good convergent and discriminant validity.

CONCLUSIONS

The Chinese version (Ch-MEOF-II) shows good reliability and validity in this study and can be applicable to assess eating difficulties in people with stroke; The Ch-MEOF-II allows the early recognition of eating difficulties and thus provides guidance of proper clinical interventions. For future study, a confirmatory factor analysis may need to confirm the three-factor structure identified in this study. Furthermore, a cross-cultural comparison can be conducted with the availability of the three different validated language versions of the MEOF-II form.