Reliability of Pesian versions of activities-specific balance confidence scale and fall efficacy scale-international questionnaires in elderly with stroke

Introduction : Stroke is the leading cause of disability in the elderly population of the world. Fear of falling and balance disruptions are most important of side effects of a stroke leading to mental disorders in some cases. In assessing the balance issues, collecting data about the effect of the disorderon the lifestyle of the patient and perception of the disability by the handicapped seems necessary, which can be obtained using questionnaires.  The purpose of this study was to investigate reliability of two Persian versions of activities-specific balance confidence (ABC) scale and fall efficacy scale-international (FES-I) questionnaires. Materials and Methods: This analytical-descriptive study, was evaluated Elderly (n =150) with stroke greater than six months ago, between the ages of 60 to 94 years and able to walk with or without assistance, without aphasia, were studied. The sampling method was non-random and available. Only subjects who completed both questionnaires were included in the data analysis. So, data analysis was conducted by Cronbach’s alpha and intraclass correlation. Results: Notably, internal consistency in both the Persian versions of ABC and FES-I questionnaires was confirmed by Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.98 and 0.96 and repeatability was confirmed by the Intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.94 and 0.99. Conclusion: Due to the present results, the Persian versions of the ABC scale and FES-I probably have acceptable reliability for the Iranian aged people with stroke experience. Using these questionnaires, we can find information about fear of falling and activity specific balance in elderly with stroke.