Reliability and validity of the COPE Index among caregivers of disabled people.

AIM: To study the reliability and validity of the Carers of Older People in Europe (COPE) Index among caregivers of disabled people of different ages.

METHODS: A cross-sectional design of Finnish caregivers (n=1117). Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed separately on samples of three different age groups, and the internal consistencies of the subscales were investigated.

RESULTS: Three factors were identified; Cronbach's alpha was 0.83-0.86 for negative impact and 0.77-0.78 for quality of support, indicating good internal consistency. The third factor, positive value, was less consistent across the age groups (α<0.66).

CONCLUSIONS: The COPE Index is a valid and reliable screening tool to measure negative impact and quality of support of caregivers of disabled people. Further research is needed to develop the COPE Index to more precisely measure positive value of the caregiving process.