Translation with ongoing adaptation and improvement (ToAI) framework: A community-informed, structured, iterative approach to culturally adapting cognitive assessment tools.

INTRODUCTION

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias (ADRD) are increasing globally, including in the United States, but the fast-growing Vietnamese American population remains understudied, with a significant lack of culturally adapted neuropsychological assessment tools. The Vietnamese Insights into Cognitive Aging Program (VIP) addresses this gap as the first longitudinal cohort study focused on this community.

METHODS

This paper (1) describes the assessment instruments, including a neuropsychological battery selected for the VIP, and (2) introduces the Translation with Ongoing Adaptation and Improvement (ToAI) framework, an innovative and practical method for culturally informed translation and adaptation.

RESULTS

The ToAI framework followed a nine-step process: preparation, translation, native-speaker review, VIP team review, external panel review, pilot testing, proofreading, final formatting, and ongoing review and improvement.

DISCUSSION

The ToAI framework was efficient, and the ongoing improvement component was particularly beneficial. It is recommended for inclusion in future cross-cultural research involving translation and adaptation processes.

HIGHLIGHTS

The Translation with Ongoing Adaptation and Improvement (ToAI) framework.Cross-cultural translation and adaptation of psychological assessment instruments.Neuropsychological assessment for Vietnamese American older adults.The Vietnamese Insights into Cognitive Aging Program (VIP).