Factor analysis and reliability of the family stigma in Alzheimer’s disease scale-Thai version

Objective: To evaluate the validity and reliability of the Family Stigma in Alzheimer’s Disease Scale (FS-ADS) (Thai version) in family caregivers of persons with Alzheimer’s disease. Material and Method: One hundred ninety-three Thai family caregivers of person with Alzheimer’s disease were studied. Exploratory factor analysis with principle component analysis and varimax rotation was performed to assess factor structures. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was calculated to estimate reliability. Results: The results revealed acceptable reliability with a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.77. Analysis of items in each dimension (caregivers’ stigma, lay persons’ stigma, and structural stigma) and a comparison between the original FS-ADS and the FS-ADS (Thai version) showed that two dimensions (caregivers’ stigma and lay persons’ stigma) had lower number of factors and lower cumulative percentages than the original version. However, an overall comparison between the two versions showed that each factor in the Thai version was similar to that of the original version. Conclusion: The overall results of exploratory factors analysis in the present study revealed good psychometric properties of the FS-ADS (Thai version). Accordingly, the FS-ADS (Thai version) was found to be a reliable and valid instrument for assessing stigmatization experienced by the Thai family caregivers providing care to persons with Alzheimer’s disease. Some questions on the FS-ADS (Thai version) may benefit from additional modification to make this tool more appropriately adapted to a Thai sociocultural context.