Psychometric Evaluation of the Urdu Version of the Vision-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire in a Low-Vision Population
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71000/kfabc264Keywords:
Vision-related quality of life, low vision, questionnaire, reliability, validity, UrduAbstract
Background: Vision-related quality of life (VRQoL) is an essential outcome measure for individuals with low vision, reflecting the functional, emotional, and social consequences of visual impairment. Despite the availability of several VRQoL instruments in English, validated tools in the Urdu language remain limited.
Objective: To translate, culturally adapt, and evaluate the psychometric properties of an Urdu version of a vision-related quality of life questionnaire among individuals with low vision in Pakistan.
Methods: A cross-sectional validation study was conducted at Al Ehsan Welfare Eye Hospital, Lahore. The questionnaire was translated into Urdu using standardized forward–backward translation procedures. Seventy-one participants with diagnosed low vision completed the Urdu questionnaire, and a subset of participants completed it again after one week to assess test–retest reliability. Internal consistency, reliability, construct validity, known-group validity, and factor structure were evaluated using standard psychometric analyses.
Results: The Urdu version demonstrated strong internal consistency, with Cronbach’s alpha values exceeding acceptable thresholds across subscales. Test–retest reliability showed good stability over time. Construct validity analysis revealed significant associations between reduced visual acuity and lower VRQoL scores. The questionnaire successfully discriminated between participants with and without visual impairment. Exploratory factor analysis supported a multidimensional structure consistent with the original instrument.
Conclusion: The Urdu version of the vision-related quality of life questionnaire is a reliable, valid, and culturally appropriate tool for assessing VRQoL among Urdu-speaking individuals with low vision. Its use is recommended for both clinical practice and research settings in Pakistan.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Esha Bilal, Naveed Babar, Qurba Kiran (Author)
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