Translation and validation of Malayalam version of swallowing and eating related fatigue scale

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Speech Language and Hearing

Abstract

Swallowing-related fatigue is a multifaceted condition that can significantly affect mealtime efficiency and overall quality of life, particularly among older adults. The Swallowing and Eating-Related Fatigue (SERF) scale was developed to assess such fatigue, but no validated Malayalam version existed prior to this study. This research aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Malayalam version of the SERF scale (SERF-M). Following standardized guidelines, the SERF was translated using a rigorous forward-backward translation process, followed by expert review and pilot testing for linguistic and cultural appropriateness. A total of 250 healthy Malayalam-speaking participants across three age groups (young, middle-aged, and older adults) were included. The participants completed the SERF-M, Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), and EAT-10M. Concurrent validity was assessed using the Mealtime Assessment Scale (MAS), and test–retest reliability was evaluated in 20% of the sample. The results revealed that 61.6% of the older adults reported swallowing fatigue. The SERF-M demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.971) and strong test–retest reliability. SERF-M scores correlated significantly with both the EAT-10M and MAS domains, including safety, efficacy, and mealtime duration, indicating good concurrent validity. Compared to the original English and Kannada versions, the Malayalam version had higher mean scores, suggesting cultural or linguistic influences on perceived fatigue. The highest-rated item indicated that fatigue negatively impacts the overall eating experience. In conclusion, the SERF-M is a reliable and valid tool for assessing swallowing-related fatigue in Malayalam-speaking populations. Its clinical utility can be enhanced by integrating it with objective performance-based assessments in future research.

DOI

10.1080/2050571X.2025.2580056

Publication Date

1-1-2025

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