The vision-specific optimization in primary and secondary control (OPS) scale

To successfully address the challenges of age-related visual impairment in rehabilitation and health care settings, it is crucial to gain a better understanding of the psychological and behavioral adaptations that occur in these populations. The purpose of this study was to modify the optimization in primary secondary control (OPS) scale [Heckhausen et al., Optimization in primary and secondary control (OPS-Scales). Technical report, 1999] to assess the utilization of lifespan control strategies among older adults with visual impairment. The OPS scale [Heckhausen et al., Optimization in primary and secondary control (OPS-Scales). Technical report, 1999] was used to develop a vision-specific version of this measure (i.e., VIS-OPS). The VIS-OPS was administered to older adults with recent vision loss (N = 364; Mean age = 82.9 years). Theory-driven confirmatory factor analysis was used to help refine the instrument and confirm the scale’s four-factor structure. Items were removed from three of the four VIS-OPS subscales due to low squared multiple correlations and poor model fit. Inter-item reliabilities for the resultant subscales ranged from .61 to .72. The final four-factor model fit the data well (RMSEA = .06, 90 % CI .05–.06), with all items loading significantly on their associated factors (i.e., subscales). Correlational analyses provided criterion-related validity for the VIS-OPS with disability and psychosocial functioning measures in the expected directions. The VIS-OPS will allow researchers to more systematically and precisely measure control strategy use in reference to specific challenges associated with visual impairment, and may serve as a model for examining control strategy use in the context of other disabilities.