AI Insight
This study validated the Beck Hopelessness Scale in 2,233 Ecuadorian older adults (mean age 74 years) by comparing one-factor, two-factor, and three-factor structural models. All three models demonstrated adequate fit, but the one-factor model was preferred for its parsimony while maintaining high internal consistency (omega = 0.933, alpha = 0.909) and adequate convergent validity. The scale proved to be a reliable and valid instrument for measuring hopelessness in this population, though two items (D16 and D17) showed comparatively weaker performance.
Why it matters
This validation provides clinicians and researchers with a reliable tool to assess hopelessness in older Ecuadorian adults, which is critical since hopelessness predicts depression and suicide risk. Given that approximately 16.6% of global suicide deaths occur in individuals aged 70 and older, having validated assessment instruments enables better identification and intervention for at-risk older adults in Ecuador and similar populations.
Understand the Science
IntroductionHopelessness is a predictor of depression and suicide. Suicide is a preventable cause of mortality worldwide. Although it is not among the leading overall causes of death in older adults due to the predominance of chronic non-communicable diseases, it remains an epidemiologically relevant issue in this stage of life. Globally, suicide ranked as the twenty-first leading cause of death in 2021, and approximately 16.6% of suicide-related deaths occurred among individuals aged 70 years and older. This highlights the need to assess associated psychological factors, such as hopelessness and depression, in the older adult population.ObjectiveTo evaluate the psychometric properties of the Beck Hopelessness Scale in Ecuadorian older adults by analyzing its factorial structure in one-, two-, and three-factor models, as well as its reliability and validity evidence, in order to determine the most appropriate structure for use in this population.MethodThe internal factorial structure, reliability, and construct validity of the Beck Hopelessness Scale were analyzed in Ecuadorian older adults. A total of 2,233 participants were assessed. Analyses were conducted for one-, two-, and three-factor variants. Reliability was examined using McDonald’s omega coefficient and Cronbach’s alpha, while validity was assessed through confirmatory factor analysis using the Weighted Least Squares Mean and Variance Adjusted (WLSMV) estimation method.ResultsThe Beck Hopelessness Scale was evaluated in 2,233 Ecuadorian older adults (M = 74.02 years, SD = 8.96). Confirmatory factor analyses demonstrated an adequate fit for the one-, two-, and three-factor structures, with the one-factor model standing out due to its greater parsimony. The scale showed high internal consistency (ω = 0.933; α = 0.909) and adequate convergent validity (average variance extracted = 0.657). Factor loadings were significant across all models, supporting the relevance of the items for measuring hopelessness, although items D16 and D17 showed comparatively lower performance.ConclusionOverall, the findings support the validity and reliability of the scale for assessing hopelessness in Ecuadorian older adults.