Estimation of the reliability and validity of the short version of the 28-item Dementia Behavior Disturbance scale

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to make a short version of the 28-item Dementia Behavior Disturbance (DBD) scale. Methods: The 28-item DBD was evaluated twice, with a mean interval of 1 year in 221 outpatients with dementia attending our institution (mean age, 78.3 years). First, 6 items which did not show substantial changes were excluded. Next, 4 items that were less frequent were excluded. After factor analysis, a new, 13-item short version of the DBD scale (DBD13) was developed. Results: The DBD13 showed high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.96). A high correlation was observed between the scores of the DBD13 and those of the Mini-Mental State Examination (r=−0.27, p<0.0001), Assessment of Daily Living (r=−0.307, p<0.0001), Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (r=−0.375, p<0.0001) and Zarit Burden Interview (r=−0.68, p<0.0001). Conclusions: The DBD13 may be a useful and valid measure of the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia to evaluate response to care for patients with dementia. © 2012, The Japan Geriatrics Society. All rights reserved.