The Physical Housing Environment instrument is a client-centred, self-administered assessment tool which is designed to examine an individual’s perception of the accessibility and usability of their housing environment. It is developed for use in combination with an objective, norm-based assessment of the physical housing environment, the Enabler instrument. The instrument contains 31 questions addressing different aspects of the physical housing environment. Responses are recorded using a seven-point rating scale. The assessment focuses on how well the home supports the individual’s everyday activities, mobility, independence and use of different residential spaces. The instrument has a client-centred approach and is a valid and reliable tool, useful for occupational therapy practice and research.
Health status and risk factors Disability, Functional decline, Fall risk
Age group Adults
Assessor Individuals
Sections / items 31 items
Self-administered No
Multi-component Yes - meant for use alongside Housing Enabler Instrument
Indicators Accessibility; usability
Authors Fänge, A. & Iwarsson, S.
Publication date 1999
Fänge, A., & Iwarsson, S. (1999). Physical housing environment: Development of a self-assessment instrument. Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, 66(5), 250-260. https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/000841749906600507