Development and psychometric validation of a multidimensional scale on the self-care needs of dependent people

Abstract

To develop and validate an interprofessional, multidimensional self-care needs scale of dependent people. After a literature search, 61 items were identified and divided into nine self-care dimensions. The items were then reviewed by an expert panel (N = 11) to confirm the content validity of the scale. Refined items were pilot-tested in 12 patients, using a 5-point Likert-type scale. A final version was generated and psychometrically tested in 143 dependent men and women aged 37–102 (80.7 ± 10.1) years. The nine multidimensional self-care needs scales were developed on a broad theoretical and empirical basis. The scales showed very good psychometric properties, having adequate characteristics, satisfactory reliability, and good validity. The scales have good psychometric properties, with minor differential item functioning. The scales can be used by health professional and policy makers to measure dependent people's self-care needs. Nevertheless, it is necessary to perform further psychometric validations using a larger sample. This is an appropriate tool for application in clinical and research settings to assess patients' self-care needs. • Global ageing brings a growing number of people dependent in self-care. • Identification of self-care needs are crucial to prioritize caring for dependents. • An interprofessional team developed and validated a multidimensional instrument. • Nine self-care needs subscales revealed very good psychometric properties. • The self-care needs scale is appropriate for application in clinical settings and research.