Article

The objective of this paper is to present a framework for systematically
describing different approaches to measure environmental factors (EF) and to
discuss some strengths and weaknesses of these approaches. METHODS:
Identification of suitable criteria for ordering measurements of EF was based on
an analysis of existing reviews,
a qualitative literature review and feedback
from experts. Items of selected EF measures were linked to the International
Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. RESULTS: Experimental and
observational designs for the study of EF are distinguished and illustrated with
examples. Approaches to study EF are differentiated into those directly measuring
an environmental interaction with function and those relying on an independent
assessment of environmental features. By applying these criteria, a
three-dimensional matrix framework for measurement of EF in observational studies
is developed. CONCLUSION: The acknowledgement of different measurement approaches
to the scientific study of EF is one pathway towards an increased understanding
of the connection between environments and functioning. Many different measures
may be used to approximate the realities of disabling or enabling environments.
This review provides an initial framework for improving our fundamental
comprehension of the complexity of the measurement of EF in the context of human
health and disability.

Langue : ANGLAIS