Factor analysis and construct validity of the SAFER-HOME

This article describes the development, factor analysis, reliability, and validity of the Safety Assessment of Function and the Environment for Rehabilitation-Health Outcome Measurement and Evaluation (SAFER-HOME). A pilot test of 104 pretest-posttest observations showed that occupational therapists perceived the SAFER-HOME as clinically useful, practical to administer, and sensitive in detecting changes. Using a factor analysis of 1, 173 observations, a 10-factor structure SAFER-HOME v.2 was developed. The 93-item SAFER-HOME had an internal consistency coefficient alpha value of 0.86. The low correlations between the SAFER-HOME v.2 and the Functional Autonomy Measuring System (r = -0.206; p = .018) supported the presumption that home safety was related but not limited to functioning. There is some evidence supporting the SAFER-HOME v.2 as a valid and reliable instrument. The SAFER-HOME v.2 represents a carefully constructed, theoretically driven, and clinically sound outcome measure for use by occupational therapists to assess home safety.