Development of the Family Needs Assessment Tool for Caregivers of Individuals with Neurological Conditions in Latin America

Abstract This study developed and examined the psychometric proprieties of the Spanish Family Needs Assessment Tool (FNAT) for caregivers of individuals with neurological conditions in Latin America. Twenty-seven items from previously published caregiver family needs scales were combined to represent nine types of needs. These items were administered to 308 caregivers of individuals with neurological conditions in Latin America. An exploratory factor analysis suggested the retention 14 items and five factors: Household Needs, Informational Needs, Financial Needs, Health Needs, and Social Support Needs. A confirmatory factor analysis then examined the fit of the five-factor solution and suggested adequate model fit. Cronbach's alphas for the overall scale and subscales suggested adequate internal consistency. The FNAT holds promise to help researchers and clinicians assess the family needs of caregivers in Latin America.