G-EAT-Adaption

Adaptation of an assessment tool for dementia-sensitive environmental design in nursing homes

The original instrument was adapted in a multi-stage process based on the recommendations of the World Health Organisation (1998). Both scientific experts and potential users from dementia-specific long-term care were involved in this process. A consultation at the University of Wollongong (Dementia Training Australia) clarified open questions and provided an insight into the use of the instrument in Australia.

Following the Australian model, the instrument can be used by both researchers and practitioners. In order to identify information needs when using the G-EAT by both groups of people and to be able to make adjustments accordingly, the instrument was subjected to a practicability test in several living units The tests focussed on the time it took to complete the questionnaire, its integration into the residents' everyday lives (avoidance of disruptions) and their understanding of the respective questions on the G-EAT. The subsequent psychometric testing was carried out in 42 different living units in nursing  homes in North Rhine-Westphalia. For this purpose, one living unit of each participating facility was visited by DZNE researchers and facility staff and the G-EAT was completed. All nursing homes received the results of the G-EAT so that they could discuss any noticeable structural issues (strengths and weaknesses) in their facility and, if necessary, obtain information on possible structural adjustments.

Fahsold, A., Fleming, R., Verbeek, H., Holle, B., & Palm, R. (2022). German Translation, Linguistic Validation, and Cultural Adaptation of the Environmental Audit Tool—High Care. HERD: Health Environments Research & Design Journal, 15(2), 262-276. https://doi.org/10.1177/19375867211043073

Fahsold, A., Schmüdderich, K., Verbeek, H., Holle, B., & Palm, R. (2022). Feasibility, Interrater Reliability and Internal Consistency of the German Environmental Audit Tool (G-EAT). International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(3), 1050. https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/19/3/1050

Fahsold, A., Brennan, S., Doan, T., Sun, J., Palm, R., Verbeek, H., & Holle, B. (2023). Adapting the Australian Environmental Assessment Tool—High Care (EAT-HC): Experiences and Practical Implications From Germany, Japan, and Singapore. HERD: Health Environments Research & Design Journal, 16(1), 287-299. https://doi.org/10.1177/19375867221122936