The Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Scale: development and psychometric properties.

Abstract

This study provides preliminary evidence for the acceptability, reliability, and validity of the new Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS), a content and psychometric update to the Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Test. Traditional scale development methods were used to generate items and evaluate their psychometric properties in a variety of subsamples. The final 30-item, true/false scale takes approximately 5-10 min to complete and covers risk factors, assessment and diagnosis, symptoms, course, life impact, caregiving, and treatment and management. Preliminary results suggest that the ADKS has adequate reliability (test-retest and internal consistency) and validity (content, predictive, concurrent, and convergent). The ADKS is designed for use in both applied and research contexts, capable of assessing knowledge about Alzheimer's disease among laypeople, patients, caregivers, and professionals.