Slovenian version of the Stroke and Aphasia Quality of Life Scale 39-Generic Version (SAQOL-39g): Psychometric properties

Purpose: Aphasia, which is one of the most common consequences of stroke, has severe impact on everyday life. Quality of life in persons with aphasia changes dramatically. In the recent years, there has been a lot of interest in assessing health-related quality of life, but few questionnaires are adapted to people with aphasia (PwA). The Stroke Aphasia Quality of Life-39 scale (SAQOL-39) Generic Version is suitable for people with and without aphasia. Our study examined the reliability and validity of a translation of the SAQOL-39 g into Slovenian in Slovenian-speaking PwA. Methods: Translation, back-translation from English into Slovenian language was performed. Seventy-three PwA with broad range of severity and times post-onset of stroke were included in the study of psychometric properties of the Slovenian translation. Results: The psychometric properties in Slovenian version were quite similar to other languages, with high internal consistency and test-retest reliability (Cronbach alpha > 0.94; ICC >= 0.99). Conclusion: The Slovenian translation of the SAQOL-39 g is a valid and reliable measure of quality of life in PwA. It can be clinically used as an additional tool for goal setting in Slovenian PwA.