The Dimensions of Health in Elderly People: A Preliminary Study for Reliability Testing and Questionnaire Validation

The study evaluates the reliability and validity of a multidimensional tool designed to assess the health dimensions of elderly populations of 32 respondent in Rourkela Block, with a focus on Sundargarh District. Initial findings reveal a raw Cronbach’s alpha of 0.568, indicating moderate internal consistency, while a standardized Cronbach’s alpha of 0.859 demonstrates strong reliability upon variance standardization. This discrepancy highlights the need for refining the tool by addressing item redundancy, misalignment, and extreme variance. Recommendations include item analysis, dimensionality assessment, and the incorporation of test-retest reliability to ensure longitudinal robustness. The tool’s comprehensive structure, covering physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health, aligns with global geriatric assessment practices, emphasizing its relevance for elderly health research. The study underscores the importance of adapting validated tools like the Cronbach Alpha Test, the Community Vulnerability Index, and context-specific instruments for targeted interventions. Limitations such as sample size, questionnaire length, and cultural relevance are identified, with strategies proposed to enhance applicability and generalizability. The integration of multidimensional assessments and innovative frameworks such as data mining for scheme awareness highlights the potential for addressing health disparities and policy gaps among elderly populations. This research emphasizes the critical role of reliable tools in improving health outcomes, ensuring effective interventions, and fostering sustainable aging in underserved regions.