Psychometric properties of the SF-8 Health-Related Quality of Life Scale in Costa Rican older adults

Abstract

Objective To assess the psychometric properties of the SF-8 health-related quality of life (HRQoL) scale in older adults from Costa Rica. Method The sample consisted of 282 Costa Ricans aged 50 years or older, with an average age of 64 years (SD = 7.55). Data were collected between 2015–2016 in the Greater Metropolitan Area of Costa Rica. Results Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the three-factor model (physical health, mental health, and general health) demonstrated a good fit (χ2 = 53.5, df = 17, p < .001; CFI = .964; RMSEA = .09 [.061–.114], SRMR = .045), along with a reliability of .87, based on Cronbach's alpha. The three-factor model showed a better fit than the traditional two-factor model did. Furthermore, significant relationships were found between HRQoL and satisfaction with present life, social support networks, and functional social support, supporting the nomological validity of SF-8 as a comprehensive measure of health perception in older Costa Ricans. Conclusions The three-factor model proved to be a superior solution to the traditional model. The designation of the third factor as one of general health is questioned, as it could equally be considered a social factor related to health given its importance for older individuals. The results endorse the utility of the SF-8 as a valid and reliable tool for measuring HRQoL in this population.