Music in Dementia Assessment Scales (MiDAS): clinical relevance, cultural adaptation and its contribution to psychosocial research in dementia

Abstract

Background: Music in Dementia Assessment Scales (MiDAS) is a validated outcome measure for music therapy with people with dementia. In preparation for multi-centre studies, there was a need to develop a systematic procedure for translating and adapting music therapy outcome measures. Investigation of the clinical relevance of MiDAS and its value and limitations in the wider context of psychosocial research in dementia was also necessary.Methods: Cultural adaptation and translation procedures were developed through literature review, expert and peer consultations and field-testing. Feedback from music therapists in Denmark, Norway and the UK was obtained. Expert opinions on MiDAS were sought from INTERDEM researchers involved in recommendation of outcome measures for dementia psychosocial research across Europe.Results: Danish and Norwegian MiDAS were produced. A guideline on translation and adaptation procedures for music therapy outcome measures was published.Conclusions: MiDAS is a reliable tool to eval...