Translation, validity, and reliability of the Arabic-language version of the 11-item Neglect and Abuse Scale (NAS) in community older adults

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To validate the 11-item Neglect and Abuse Scale (NAS) in Arabic and establish its psychometric robustness within a sample of community older adult. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 539 Arabic-speaking older adults from Egypt. The total sample was divided randomly into two subsamples (1/3 for the EFA and 2/3 for the CFA). RESULTS: The initial analysis of the unidimensional structure indicated poor fit. Consequently, an EFA using oblimin rotation was conducted, which revealed a clear two-factor structure, explaining 54% of the variance. The first factor captured neglect-related experiences (e.g. being deceived, neglected, or denied rights), while the second factor reflected more overt forms of abuse (e.g. physical or verbal assault, betrayal, sexual harassment). A CFA, conducted on the solution obtained in the EFA, demonstrated acceptable fit. Reliability assessments indicated a commendable level of internal consistency. Sex invariance results showed no significant differences between male and female participants in the measurement characteristics. Concurrent validity analysis indicated a moderate negative correlation between the NAS scores and resilience and quality of life scores. CONCLUSION: This research provides a reliable and valid instrument for identifying and assessing elder neglect and abuse among Arabic-speaking communities, thereby supporting effective prevention and intervention strategies.