Portuguese translation and cultural adaptation of the Music in Dementia Assessment Scales (MiDAS)

Introduction Music in Dementia Assessment Scales (MiDAS) is an observational, dementia-specific, visual analogue scale, developed to measure musical experiences of patients with dementia (PwD). It was derived from qualitative data focus groups and interviews PwD, carers, care home staff, music therapists. Since its publication, there has been great interest using MiDAS several European countries, including Portugal. However, no adaptation Portuguese language culture yet available. In this manuscript, we aim describe the process translation cultural Portuguese, presenting final MiDAS-PT version.Method We have followed a rigorous 10-step approach, consisting of: preparation stage; elaboration two forward translations; synthesis latter versions; back-translation by bilingual professional translator; revision that version original author MiDAS; harmonization other versions different languages; testing debriefing volunteer health professionals; consensus meetings; proofreading; and, finally, reporting process.Results No major changes made actual content text MiDAS. Some minor adjustments were wording, additional instruction details added order increase clarity adequacy setting.Discussion Overall, professionals considered instrument be user-friendly intuitive terms content, structure layout. To allow use for research clinical purposes, next step will study psychometric properties.