The Reliability and Validity of the Korean Short Version of the Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale

Purpose The aim of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of the Korean short version of the Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale (SS-QoL-12K). Design A descriptive, cross-sectional design was used. Methods We recruited 233 outpatients with ischemic stroke. Findings The Cronbach's alpha coefficients for internal consistency was .93, and the test-retest reliability value was .98. Confirmatory factor analysis identified two dimensions for the SS-QoL-12K. The SS-QoL-12K was correlated positively with the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey score and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living and negatively with the modified Rankin Scale score. The SS-QoL scores in the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale mild group were higher than those in the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale moderate and severe groups. Conclusions This study shows that the SS-QoL-12K has a satisfactory level of reliability and validity in patients with ischemic stroke. Clinical relevance This instrument will be helpful in advancing research and clinical care for stroke patients.