Cross-cultural adaptation, validity, and reliability study of shortened version of the Vestibular Activities and Participation Measure into Turkish

BackgroundVestibular disorders significantly impact daily activities and participation, leading to reduced quality of life. The Shortened Vestibular Activities and Participation Measure (VAP) is a 12-item tool designed to assess activity limitations and participation restrictions in individuals with vestibular disorders.ObjectiveIn this study, the Turkish Shortened VAP was translated and culturally adapted. Its validity and reliability were also assessed.MethodsA total of 123 participants with vestibular disorders were included. The translation and cultural adaptation followed standard guidelines. Structural validity was assessed through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, and convergent validity was evaluated using correlations with the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI). Reliability was examined using internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega) and item analysis.ResultsFactor analyses confirmed the two-factor structure with good fit indices (GFI = 0.938). Significant correlations with the DHI supported convergent validity (r = 0.65). Internal consistency was strong for the total scale (Cronbach's α = 0.85; McDonald's ω = 0.91) and acceptable for subscales. All items demonstrated acceptable corrected item-total correlations.ConclusionsThe Turkish Shortened VAP is a valid and reliable tool for assessing activity limitations and participation restrictions in vestibular disorders, suitable for clinical and research use in Turkey.