Abstract
Objective: The Neuropsychiatric Inventory-Questionnaire (NPI-Q) is a commonly used measure
in clinical work and research. The purpose of this study was to expand on the limited psychometric
testing of this measure, and extend testing to include hospitalized older adults.
Methods: This was a descriptive study using data from the first 318 dyads in an ongoing cluster
randomized clinical trial testing the efficacy of Family-centered Function-focused Care. The
NPI-Q, the AD8 Dementia Screening Interview, the Pfeffer Functional Activities Questionnaire,
the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale and the Confusion Assessment Method Severity were
completed. Rasch analysis was used to evaluate internal consistency, invariance using a DIF
analysis, and construct validity based on evidence that the items fit the Rasch measurement
model. Hypothesis testing evaluated the association between the NPI-Q and other cognitive and
functional measures.
Results: The majority of the 318 participants were female (62%), Non-Hispanic (98%), and black
(50%) with a mean age of 81.62 (SD=8.43). There was evidence of internal consistency for all
subscales (behavior, severity and caregiver distress) and evidence of invariance across race and
gender. The items on the NPI-Q fit with each subscale. Hypothesis testing was supported with a
significant association between the AD8 and MoCA with behaviors and severity and the AD8 and
caregiver distress.
Conclusions: The NPI-Q is short, easy to complete, and reliable and valid when used with hospitalized older adults.
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