Reliability and Validity of the Polish Version of the Alzheimer’s Disease Knowledge Scale

Abstract

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> In the context of increasing numbers of older adults and an increased prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases, the early diagnosis of dementia has become an important issue. Poland’s population is aging, and the growing number of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) may pose challenges for families and the health-care system. While creating effective psychoeducational interventions aiming at increasing caregivers’ knowledge may be beneficial, Poland lacks a standardized measurement for assessing knowledge about AD or a related form of dementia. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> The aim of our study was to translate and evaluate the Alzheimer’s Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS) among Polish individuals. <b><i>Results:</i></b> The Polish ADKS was developed through a translation-back translation method. Psychometric evaluation was done with a sample of 942 individuals (caregivers, health-care professionals, and general population) who completed the questionnaire. <b><i>Discussion:</i></b> The results indicate that the scale produces acceptable psychometric properties and can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of educational interventions among caregivers, health-care professionals, and the general population.