Cultural Adaptation and Psychometric Properties of the Turkish Version of the Dementia Literacy Assessment (DeLA).

Authors

Fikriye Yılmaz, Emre Ozcan, Deniz Gungor Ozcan

Published in

Current Alzheimer research. Jul 06, 2026. Epub Jul 06, 2026.

Abstract

This study aims to culturally adapt the Dementia Literacy Assessment (DeLA) scale into Turkish and to evaluate its psychometric properties. The DeLA introduces an innovative approach by employing narrative-based storytelling, rather than conventional didactic methods, to assess dementia literacy and to challenge prevailing societal misconceptions.
The study comprised procedures including linguistic equivalence testing, expert consensus (ICC = 0.88), and readability analysis. The sample consisted of 120 participants (mean age: 60.88 ± 8.72 years). Participants completed a pre-test, read two culturally adapted stories, and subsequently completed a post-test. Psychometric evaluation included KR-20 reliability coefficients and corrected item-total correlations.
The mean DeLA score increased significantly from 7.71 ± 1.95 to 8.54 ± 1.99 (p < 0.05), corresponding to an overall improvement of 14%. The greatest increase was observed among male participants (25.01%). Correct response rates to the statement that "forgetfulness is a normal part of aging" improved by 47.3%. The scale demonstrated good internal consistency, with KR-20 values of 0.701 (pre-test) and 0.734 (post-test). Education level, family history of dementia, and caregiving experience were significantly associated with higher post-test performance (p < 0.05).
Narrative-based assessments such as the DeLA may bridge gaps in dementia knowledge more effectively than traditional approaches by directly addressing deeply rooted cultural myths, including the normalization of forgetfulness.
The Turkish version of the DeLA is a valid and reliable instrument with high sensitivity for assessing dementia literacy. Its narrative-based format effectively challenges deeply ingrained cultural misconceptions. The scale offers a robust framework for epidemiological research and public health initiatives aimed at reducing stigma and promoting early diagnosis within Turkey's aging population.

PMID:
42411230
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 07 Jul 2026.

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