Construct validity of the Questionnaire for Older Senior Citizens based on a confirmatory factor analysis: A study during the period of self-restraint to prevent the spread of coronavirus disease 2019.

Abstract

AimThis study aims to clarify the construct and criterion‐related validity of the Questionnaire for Older Senior Citizens (QO) during the COVID‐19 pandemic.MethodsThis cross‐sectional study was conducted in Japan between November 11, 2020 and January 10, 2021. Of the 1645 (63.5%) older adults who responded, data from 900 participants were analyzed. First, we conducted an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) among older‐older adults (aged ≥75 years) and extracted the factors. Next, we conducted a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) using structural equation modeling. We also conducted this analysis among younger‐older adults (aged ≥65 and <75 years) using the same model. Moreover, we compared each item of the QO with frailty status.ResultsResults of the EFA revealed six factors: social conditions and lifestyle, subjective conditions, cognitive functions, physical activity, oral functions, and physical functions. The results of the CFA were as follows: comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.971, adjusted goodness of fit index (AGFI) = 0.978, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.018, and standardized root mean square residual (SRMR) = 0.030. The results among the younger‐older adults were as follows: CFI = 0.880, AGFI = 0.940, RMSEA = 0.037, and SRMR = 0.048. Many QO items were significantly associated with frailty (P < 0.05).ConclusionsAmong the older‐older adults group, the model used for the QO has sufficient suitability and construct validity; among the younger‐older adults group, there also is sufficient questionnaire suitability. Moreover, the QO has criterion related validity with frailty. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 1018–1025.