Revision and Validation of the Rasch-Based Scenario Scales for Measuring Activity Engagement in Older Adults

• In Event: Application of the Rasch Model

Abstract

Engagement refers to the experience of connecting on a deep and meaningful level with a role. Empirical research and theory tell us that supporting the continued engagement of older adults in productive activities is beneficial to individuals, families, communities, and society-at-large. Guttman’s facet theory was utilized to frame important facets of productive role engagement followed by his sentence mapping procedure to construct and subsequently revise scenario-type items. These items formed scales designed according to Rasch measurement principles. Variable definition confirmation, cross-validation comparisons and differential item functioning analyses jointly illustrate (a) the successful revisions to the scales and (b) their utility in assessing the extent to which older adults are involved in roles/activities that enhance their physical, mental, and spiritual health.

Authors

• Kelsey Klein, Boston College

• Larry H. Ludlow, Boston College

• Christina Matz-Costa, Boston College