Criterion validity of an Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) screening list for screening ADHD in older adults aged 60-94 years

Am J Geriatr Psychiatry. 2013 Jul;21(7):631-5. doi: 10.1016/j.jagp.2012.08.003. Epub 2013 Jan 16.

Abstract

Objective: To identify Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in older adults, a validated screener is needed. This study evaluates the reliability and criterion validity of an ADHD screener for younger adults on its usefulness in a population-based sample of older adults.

Methods: Data were collected as a side study in the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam. In a two-phase design the validity of the screener was tested against a structured diagnostic interview (DIVA 2.0). In Phase 1, 1,494 respondents (60-94 years) were assessed with the ADHD screener. In Phase 2, 231 respondents participated in the diagnostic interview.

Results: Internal consistency (Cronbach's α) and reliability (ICC) of the screener were 0.71 and 0.56, respectively. The area under the curve was 0.82. The optimal cut-point was found at 2 (sensitivity: 0.80; specificity: 0.77; PPV: 0.13; NPV: 0.99).

Conclusion: Despite its low ICC, the ADHD screener may serve as a useful contribution to measure ADHD in the older population.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / diagnosis*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interview, Psychological
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Psychometrics / instrumentation
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Surveys and Questionnaires