The present study was conducted to examine the validity of the School Function Assessment (SFA). The study sample consisted of 64 children: 29 in general education (GEN) without disabilities, 18 with learning disabilities (LD), and 17 with cerebral palsy (CP). Convergent validity was supported by the significant correlation (r values ranged from .56 to .72) found between the scores on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (classroom edition) to comparable scales of the SFA. Construct validity of the SFA using the known groups method was also supported. Significant differences in SFA scores among the 3 groups were found using the Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance and multiple comparisons. The GEN group differed from the LD group in cognitive/behavioral subtests, the CP group differed from the GEN group in all areas of the SFA, and the LD and CP groups differed on the physical domain of the SFA. Finally, the discriminant analysis of scores on the SFA showed the high percentage of participants being correctly classified in the respective groups (93.1% for GEN, 55.8% for LD, and 88.2% for CP). These results provide new evidence for the validity of the SFA using methodologies not previously reported in the literature. Given the unique features as well as the provided psychometrical properties of the SFA, this recently developed functional assessment should be considered a valid instrument for use in school settings.

This study was conducted to develop and validate the Health Enhancement Lifestyle Profile (HELP), a self-report measure for examining various aspects of health-related lifestyle in older adults. Data derived from 253 community-dwelling older adults were analyzed through the Rasch measurement model. Unidimensionality and data-model fit of HELP were largely supported through the analyses of principal components of residuals, fit statistics, local dependency, and differential item functioning. The item hierarchy formed through logits provided an expected pattern of healthy lifestyle behaviors. Acceptable to good person separation and reliability statistics supported the clinical applicability and consistency of the HELP scores. Finally, analysis of the rating scale structure confirmed the functioning of the 0- to 5-point rating scale used. HELP can assist in monitoring lifestyle risk factors and measuring the outcome of services aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles among older adults.

The Health Enhancement Lifestyle Profile-Screener (HELP-Screener) is a 15-item self-report questionnaire conceptually excerpted from the original 56-item HELP. This article describes the development and validation of the HELP-Screener with a sample of 483 community-dwelling older adults. Data derived from the sample were first analyzed using the Rasch dichotomous model. Unidimensionality and datamodel fit of the HELP-Screener were largely supported by the analyses of principal components of residuals, fit statistics, local dependency, differential item functioning, and item hierarchy. To delineate the clinical significance of the test results, the cutoff score for the HELP-Screener was established through the mean and standard deviation generated from the study sample. The HELP-Screener can serve as a timeefficient screening for identifying older adults who may require a comprehensive evaluation through HELP and, as a result, who may benefit from a lifestyle intervention. Of note, more studies are planned to further corroborate psychometric properties of this new instrument. Hwang, J. E. (2012). Development and validation of a 15-item lifestyle screening for community-dwelling older adults.American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 66, e98-e106. http://dx

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The Health Enhancement Lifestyle Profile (HELP) is a self-report measure for examining various aspects of health-related lifestyle in older adults through seven scales (Exercise; Diet; Work, Education, and Social Participation; Leisure; Activities of Daily Living; Psychological Wellness and Spiritual Participation; and Other Health Promotion and Risk Behaviors). The current study examined the reliability and validity of the HELP scales through classic test theory. The resultant alpha coefficients ranged from .75 to .92 among the scales, indicating acceptable to good internal consistency reliability. Construct validity was also supported by the interrelationships found among the HELP scales and the statistically significant correlations shown between HELP results and global health status (i.e., number of chronic conditions, self-related health). HELP scales can help occupational therapists identify and monitor health promotion occupations and risk behaviors and measure the outcome of services aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles in older adults.