This article describes the protocol to systematically create a German translation of the Preferences for Everyday Living Inventory. The new tool, called PELI-D, is designed for use in nursing homes, home care and adult day care centers. The article reviews the protocol to develop a culture-sensitive translation; validate the new PELI-D; and pilot the questionnaire in each of the three care settings. The project also plans to test a proxy version of the PELI-D with the close relatives of those receiving care, and to examine the stability of preferences over three months.