Objective: This study aimed to translate and validate the Chinese version of the Diagnostic Instrument for Limb Apraxia-Short Version (DILA-S) classic subtests in Chinese patients after ischemic stroke.
Methods: The DILA-S was translated and adapted for use in Mandarin-speaking Chinese patients. Internal consistency, test-retest reliability, dimensionality, convergent validity, divergent validity, and concurrent validity were tested.
Results: A total of 112 ischemic stroke patients were included. The internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha 0.85 ~ 0.92) and test-retest reliability (ICC 0.88 ~ 0.93) were found satisfactory. Exploratory factor analysis obtained two factors for the imitation subtests and the execution scale of the pantomime of tool use. Convergent validity was supported by strong correlations (ρ > 0.7) between the scores of the DILA-S subtests and the LOTCA motor praxis subscale. Divergent validity was acceptable for weak to moderate correlations (ρ ranged from -0.25~ -0.41) between the scores of the DILA-S subtests and the NIHSS. Concurrent validity was supported by strong correlations (ρ > 0.7) between the scores of the DILA-S subtests and the MoCA, as well as strong correlations (ρ > 0.6 < 0.7) between the scores of the DILA-S subtests and the BI.
Conclusion: The Chinese version of the DILA-S classic subtests demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties for assessing limb apraxia in Chinese patients after ischemic stroke.
Keywords: Apraxia; cognitive function; imitation; ischemic stroke; limb; pantomime; validation.