German version of the de Morton mobility index. First clinical results from the process of the cross-cultural adaptation

The English version of the de Morton Mobility Index (DEMMI) enables allied health professions in an inpatient setting to assess the mobility of geriatric patients in a reliable, valid, easy and fast way, without showing any floor or ceiling effects. The aim of this study was the DEMMI's cross-cultural adaption into German language with further analysis of some of its psychometric properties based on this process. Translation was done in a multistage procedure following international recommendations. Within clinical pilot testing the DEMMI was routinely applied over a period of 3 weeks in a geriatric hospital. User experiences were evaluated in a qualitative way and DEMMI test results were analyzed with the focus on practicability and responsiveness. A German DEMMI version has been translated and performed with 133 patients. The test takes approximately 10 min to administer, is save and easy to use and does not show any floor or ceiling effects. The DEMMI is valid for the whole mobility spectrum, that is why mobility changes can be realized sufficiently in contrast to the Timed Up And Go Test. The DEMMI is already applicable in the German-speaking world. However, further research on its validity and reproducibility are desirable.