Translation and Psychometric Analysis of Activities Specific Balance Confidence Scale (Abc-U) and Fall Efficacy Scale International (Fes-I-U) in Elderly

Abstract

Background: With the increasing elderly population globally, understanding and managing fear of falling and balance issues have become paramount, especially in countries like Pakistan. The Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scale is a widely recognized tool for assessing these concerns in older adults. However, there was a need for a version adapted to the Urdu-speaking population. Objective: The study aimed to translate the ABC scale into Urdu and assess its psychometric properties to provide a reliable tool for evaluating fear of falling and balance confidence in Pakistani older adults. Methods: This analytical study involved a sample of 120 elderly individuals, selected through non-probability convenience sampling from PAF Hospital Islamabad and local communities. Inclusion criteria were individuals aged 60 years or above, capable of walking with or without aid, and proficient in Urdu. Those with known pathologies affecting balance, psychological issues, vision impairments, or a history of fractures were excluded. The English version of the ABC scale was translated into Urdu following the COSMIN guidelines. Psychometric testing included evaluating internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and concurrent validity. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Results: The Urdu version of the ABC scale showed high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha > 0.90). The Standard Error of Measurement (SEM) for the complete tool was 2.40, with individual components ranging from 3.55 to 11.2. The Minimal Detectable Change (MDC95) for the full scale score was 6.4. Concurrent validity, assessed through correlation with the Fall Efficacy Scale International Urdu version (FES-I-U), revealed a strong negative relationship (r = -0.80, p < 0.0001). The mean normative value of self-perceived balance confidence among participants was 70.5. Conclusion: The study successfully translated and validated the ABC scale into Urdu, providing a reliable and valid tool for assessing fear of falling and balance confidence among Urdu-speaking older adults in Pakistan. This adaptation is crucial for culturally sensitive geriatric care and fall prevention strategies.