Reliability and validity of the interRAI Check-Up Self-Reported (CUSR) Assessment.

BACKGROUND

As the global population ages, the need for community-based tools to assess the functional status and care needs of older adults is increasing. This study examined the reliability, validity, and feasibility of the interRAI Check-Up Self-Reported (CUSR) in a low-income urban district in Seoul, South Korea.

METHODS

A total of 158 older adults participated in this study. The interRAI CUSR was administered by trained lay interviewers, and psychometric testing was conducted using interrater reliability, test-retest reliability, and criterion validity measures. The study assessed the agreement between self-reported and clinician-administered assessments as well as participant feedback on feasibility and acceptability.

RESULTS

The interRAI CUSR demonstrated good psychometric properties, with interrater reliability scores (mean kappa = 0.97, Gwet's AC1 = 0.99) and test-retest reliability (mean kappa = 0.76, Gwet's AC1 = 0.94), indicating high levels of agreement. Criterion validity showed strong correlations with the items in the interRAI Check-Up (CU) administered by clinicians. The participants reported that the tool was easy to use and accurately reflected their health status. Overall, the interRAI CUSR was found to be a reliable and feasible tool for generally healthy, pre-frail older adults residing in low-income communities.

CONCLUSION

The interRAI CUSR is a valuable tool for assessing the functional status of older adults living independently in low-income communities. By enabling self-assessment with the support of laypersons, this tool may reduce the burden on health care professionals and enhance community-based care. Further research is required to expand its applicability to diverse settings and populations.