Assessment of Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) Validity in Iranian Elderly Population

The Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) is a valid measure to assess the impact of oral conditions on quality of life of elderly people. This study was done to translate this index into Persian language and to validate its use in an elderly Iranian population. In this validation study, the GOHAl scale was translated in a standardized way consisting of forward (Persian to English) and backward translation. Validity, reliability and responsiveness of the final version were assessed on 150 participants. Reliability was assessed by examining internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) and Test-retest and validity was tested by using clinical parameters. The mean GOHAI scores for validity were significantly lower for participants with poor perceived oral health, less dental attendance and less number of total teeth (P<0.05). The reliability in terms of a Cronbach’s alpha value was 0.92. The measure demonstrated (ICC=0.91) for test-retest reliability. The GOHAI sum score increased significantly after patients received periodontal therapy. The Persian version of the GOHAI had excellent reliability, acceptable validity and responsiveness to be used as measure of oral health-related quality of life in studies of the elderly.