Developing a Korean Version of the Scale for the Observation of Agitation in Persons with Dementia of Alzheimer-Type

Purpose: The aim of this study was to develop a Korean version of the Scale for Observation of Agitation in Persons with Dementia of the Alzheimer-Type [DAT] (K-SOAPD) that reflects the Korean context of this problematic behavior and to evaluate its reliability and validity. Methods: This study was prepared based on the guidelines for translation and application of measurement scales presented by the World Health Organization. A total of 200 subjects from two nursing homes were included in this study. Exploratory factor and confirmatory factor analyses were performed to verify validity. Results: In the exploratory factor analysis (EFA), the K-SOAPD consisted of seven items with two factors: physical movement and negative word . The K-SOAPD presented satisfactory validity and reliability (Cronbach’s &#9082;=.86 (p<.001), test-retest=0.83 (p<.001), inter-rater=.91 (p<.001)). This finding shows the K-SOAPD is a valid and reliable scale for measuring agitation, the behavioral problem of dementia. Conclusion: This research can contribute toward establishing global standards by enabling international comparative studies of agitation among patients with dementia.