Differences between Neuro-QoL Measures

Computer Adaptive Tests (CATs) versus Short Forms

  • Many domains offer a computer adaptive test (CAT) and one or more short forms. Select that type of measure that fits your needs and resources. Learn more>>
    • CATs
      • Tailored selection of items for each respondent
      • Requires administration technology
      • High measurement precision across a wide range of symptom/function severity
    • Short forms
      • All respondents answer all questions
      • No special administration technology needed
      • Degree of measurement precision varies

Version Differences

  • Some HealthMeasures have multiple versions (e.g., v1.0, v1.1, v2.0)
  • Generally, it is recommended that you use the most recent version available (highest number)
  • A decimal increase (v1.0 to v1.1) usually retains the same item-level parameters as well as instrument reliability and validity
  • Whole number increases (e.g., v1.0 to v2.0) are used with more substantial changes
  • Scoring and user manuals include detailed information on version differences including when scores from different versions of a measure can be compared with each other.
  • Access Neuro-QoL Scoring and User Manuals>>

Neuro-QoL, HDQLIFE, TBI-CareQOL, and TBI-QOL

  • Neuro-QoL measures were developed for use with adults who have a neurological condition or disorder.
  • The Neuro-QoL HDQLIFE measures were developed to assess important aspects of health-related quality of life for those with Huntington Disease (HD).
    • This includes chorea, concern with death and dying, end of life planning, speech difficulties, and swallowing difficulties.
    • Although initially developed and validated with people with HD, the measures do not reference HD and content is relevant to other patient populations.
    • Visit the HDQLIFE website to learn more>>
  • The Neuro-QoL TBI-CareQOL measures were developed to assess important aspects of health-related quality of life for those providing care to individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Caregivers report on their own experience, not that of the person receiving care.
    • Measures assess caregiver strain, caregiver vigilance, caregiver-specific anxiety, emotional suppression, feeling trapped, feelings of loss for oneself, feelings of loss for the person with TBI, caregivers’ frustration with military healthcare for their care recipient, and caregivers’ frustration with military healthcare for caregivers.
    • Measures were developed and initially validated with caregivers for individuals with TBI. Some measures include items that reference “injury” (e.g., “I worry that I cannot retire because of the injury.”) However, most items and measures do not reference TBI and content is relevant to other caregivers. The military healthcare frustration measures are specifically for services from the Department of Defense (DoD) and United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care systems.
    • Visit the TBI-CareQOL website to learn more>>
  • The Traumatic Brain Injury Quality of Life (TBI-QOL) measures were developed to assess the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social aspects of quality of life for individuals living with a traumatic brain injury. Individuals with TBI report on their own experience. TBI-QOL is not part of Neuro-QoL or HealthMeasures. The measures are included in the NIH Toolbox and PROMIS iPad Apps and the Assessment Center API. Learn more>>