Obstacle: A Tool to Assess the Home Environment Designed for All

Abstract

Introduction. Elderly prefer to live as long as possible independent in their own home. The occupational therapist can play an important role in this, for instance by giving advice regarding home adaptations or the use of assistive technology in order for the person to function more independently. There is need for a tool that allow to screen the home easily and thorough. Aim. The aim of the study is to develop a screening tool that meets the requirements of occupational therapists to assess the home environment for persons in order to facilitate independent living Methods. The screening tool 'Obstacle' was developed and tested in 3 phases within an iterative way using a user-centred design. Firstly, crucial items based on literature and expertise of researchers and occupational therapists in the field were identified and the Obstacle paper version and manual was developed. Secondly, the tool was adapted and digitalised to be used on a tablet. Thirdly, a mini-version of Obstacle was created, being less time consuming and usable as a signalling tool to determine the need for applying the extensive version. The tool was tested by screening homes of 96 elderly in total. Additionally, opinions of 5 elderly, 5 informal caregivers and 5 professional caregivers were gathered with a focus group. Results. The digital screening tool Obstacle is developed and includes 13 rooms to be screened with specific items for each room to be scored. Obstacle was judged very useful by occupational therapists. Conclusion. The novelty of this tool is the focus on independent living and the starting point of occupational performance, reduce the risk of falling and facilitating in advising the optimal home adaptations.