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Multidimensional Functional Assessment Questionnaire
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About Multidimensional Functional Assessment Questionnaire
Scale Name
Multidimensional Functional Assessment Questionnaire
Author Details
Duke University
Translation Availability
English
Background/Description
The OARS Multidimensional Functional Assessment Questionnaire (OMFAQ), developed by Duke University in 1975 and revised in 1988, assesses overall personal functional status and service use, particularly for adults and the elderly, serving as a screening tool, outcomes evaluation, and cost-effectiveness measure for care approaches. Originating from the OARS Program (1972) at the Duke University Center for Aging and Human Development to support frail elderly independence, it evolved from an Intake Form and Community Service Questionnaire into a 120-item structured interview (66 respondent questions, 10 informant judgments) divided into Part A (functional assessment: social/economic resources, mental/physical health, ADL) and Part B (24 service use categories). Administered by trained interviewers, it takes ~30 minutes for Part A and ~45 minutes total, unsuitable for partial use.
Items draw from tools like the Short Psychiatric Evaluation Schedule and SPMSQ, with 1988 revisions clarifying economic questions. Scored manually (6-point scale per section: outstanding to complete impairment) or via computer (weighted regression-based scores), it yields five section scores, a Cumulative Impairment Score (CIS, 5–30), or dichotomized profiles (e.g., impaired vs not impaired). Validated with elderly and adult samples (mean age ≈ 18–85 years, mixed gender, U.S.-based), it correlates with functional status measures. Used in geriatrics and care planning, access requires training/courses from the Duke Center for Aging.
Administration, Scoring and Interpretation
- Obtain the OMFAQ from Duke University (1975, revised 1988) or the Duke Center for Aging, completing a two-day training course and ensuring ethical permissions.
- Explain to participants (adults 18+, especially elderly) or informants that the interview assesses functional status and service needs, emphasizing confidentiality and voluntary participation.
- Administer the 120-item structured interview (Part A: ~30 minutes, Part B: ~15 minutes) by a trained interviewer, covering past status and service use.
- Estimated total time is ~45 minutes.
- Ensure a supportive environment; provide care resources (e.g., support services) and adapt for accessibility (e.g., clear instructions, assistance) if needed.
Reliability and Validity
The OMFAQ demonstrates solid psychometric properties (Duke University, 1988). Internal consistency is high (Cronbach’s alpha ≈ 0.80–0.90 across sections, N not specified). Test-retest reliability is moderate to high (r ≈ 0.75–0.85) over short intervals. Inter-rater reliability varies (manual vs computer scoring), with computer methods reducing discrepancies (specific r not provided).
Convergent validity is supported by correlations with SPMSQ (r ≈ 0.70–0.80) and ADL scales. Discriminant validity is evidenced by its ability to differentiate functional levels (e.g., 5 vs 30 CIS), with section scores reflecting distinct domains. Factor analysis supports the five-section structure, reinforcing construct validity. The OMFAQ reliably assesses function. Pairing with the Katz ADL Index or PAMIE enhances comprehensive assessment.
Available Versions
144-Items
Reference
Fillenbaum, G. G. (2013). Multidimensional functional assessment of older adults: The Duke Older Americans Resources and Services procedures. Psychology Press.
Important Link
Scale File:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the OMFAQ measure?
It measures functional status and service use across social, economic, mental, physical, and ADL domains.
Who is the target population?
Adults (18+), especially elderly, in care or community settings.
How long does it take to administer?
Approximately 45 minutes.
Can it inform interventions?
Yes, it assesses needs to guide care planning and cost-effectiveness.
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