Test-retest reliability of self-report instruments for measuring leisure activities in adults

Abstract

Leisure activities contribute to the preservation of physical and mental capabilities in aging. Measuring leisure pursuits with psychometrically sound instruments is essential to understand the specific relationships between different activities and health outcomes. This study aimed to examine the test-retest reliability of self-report instruments for measuring leisure activities in adults. The sample consisted of 86 healthy adult participants. Participants completed two assessments, three weeks apart, using the following instruments: 1) a single-question Attitude to Physical Activity scale (A2PA); 2) a modification of a COBRA questionnaire on recent engagement in physical and mental activities (SA-COBRA Cognitive and Physical); 3) scales measuring engagement in social/spiritual activities over the past two years from the standard Victoria Longitudinal Study – Activity Lifestyle Questionnaire (VLS-ALQ-S+). All instruments exhibited acceptable test-retest reliability, demonstrating their ability to reflect consistent patterns of lifestyle over time. This finding supports their suitability for assessing recent engagement in leisure activities.