OBJECTIVE: To describe the process of adaptation of an instrument that analyzes the health literacy of older people. METHODS: The adaptation consisted of steps to determine conceptual equivalence of items, operationally and semantically. RESULTS: The stages of conceptual and item equivalence showed that the items and concepts of this Canadian instrument was suitable for use in Brazil. The steps of initial translation, back translation, expert committee review and pre-test performed during evaluation of semantic equivalence have resulted in alterations to some items and rewording of some questions. Regarding operational equivalence, the interview was appropriate to local realities. CONCLUSION: The steps of transcultural adaptation, generally adopted for validation of measurement tools, were used and allowed researchers to adequately conduct this research study.
Validation study; Health education; Health of the elderly