Accuracy of the Brazilian version of the Functional Activities Questionnaire in the screening of dementia

Abstract

Background: Instruments for measuring functional disability of the elderly, such as the Functional Activities Questionnaire, can be used for the detection and prediction of dementia. Objective: To evaluate the accuracy of the Brazilian version of the Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ-BR) in dementia screening. Methodology: Cross-sectional study with 265 elderly and their respective informants. The performance of the FAQ-BR was compared to the clinical diagnosis of dementia and their score compared to screening instruments for cognitive decline/dementia. The receiver operating curve (ROC curve) was used to determine the sensitivity and specificity of the best cutoff. Results: The area under the ROC curve indicated an accuracy of 79.7% with cutoff point ≥ 14, which showed the highest sensitivity (80.0%) and specificity (72.0%). The FAQ-BR score showed high correlations with the scores of the cognitive decline/dementia screening instruments. Conclusion: The area under the ROC curve, sensitivity and specificity of the FAQ-BR were found to be inappropriate, and it was not possible to recommend its use in dementia screening.

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scales to Detect Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review

“…Both Jomar, et al [20] (AUC: .797) and [22] (AUC: .864) provided diagnostic accuracy measures. Jomar, et al [20] reported a sensitivity of 80%, specificity of 72%, positive predictive value of 68.7% and negative predictive value of 82.4% with a cut-off score of 14. Aprahamian, et al [22] used a cut-off of 11.5, showing a sensitivity of 85.3% and specificity of 76.5%.…”

“…For Sanchez, et al [21] and Jomar, et al [20], 75% and 85.7% of informants had 9+ years of education, while Aprahamian, et al [22]'s sample were 100% illiterate.…”

“…Three studies examined the FAQ [20][21][22]. All studies were based in Brazil and used Portuguese versions of the scale.…”

“…Transcultural adaptions of the FAQ for Brazil were designed, which included reviewing and adapting items and expressions to increase relevance to Brazilian culture. All studies took place in urban environments, with two in community settings [20,21] and one in clinic [22]. Within each sample, dementia accounted for 43% [20] and 62% [22] of participants.…”

“…All studies took place in urban environments, with two in community settings [20,21] and one in clinic [22]. Within each sample, dementia accounted for 43% [20] and 62% [22] of participants. Sanchez, et al [21] did not characterise people with dementia, but all those included had a MMSE score of <27.…”