Understanding ADLs and IADLs: A Guide for Caregivers and Professionals

Neha Jain
Apr 17
2 min read

Professionals working in aging care often assess whether an older adult requires assistance with "ADLs" or "IADLs." These terms—Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs)—refer to essential life tasks necessary for independent living.

For family caregivers, understanding these concepts can help in recognizing when an elderly loved one needs extra support and planning for appropriate care solutions.

Why ADLs and IADLs Matter

Difficulties with ADLs and IADLs are key indicators of an older adult’s need for assistance, supervision, or hands-on care. These challenges can impact decisions about:

Whether an individual is safe to live independently.
The level of care required in a home or facility setting.
Eligibility for long-term care services or financial assistance programs.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

ADLs are fundamental self-care tasks that people typically learn early in life. Also known as Basic Activities of Daily Living (BADLs), they include:

Ambulation: The ability to walk or move around, whether independently or with assistive devices.
Feeding: The capability to bring food from a plate to the mouth.
Dressing & Grooming: Selecting appropriate clothing, dressing, and maintaining personal appearance.
Toileting: Getting to and from the toilet, using it properly, and ensuring personal hygiene.
Bathing: Washing the face and body in a bath or shower.
Transferring: Moving from one position to another, such as from a bed to a chair or standing up to use a walker.

Levels of assistance with ADLs range from minimal help (reminders or stand-by support) to full dependency, where caregivers must perform the task completely.

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs)

IADLs involve more complex skills necessary for independent living. These tasks, typically learned in adolescence, require cognitive abilities, planning, and organization. They include:

Managing Finances: Paying bills, budgeting, and handling financial responsibilities.
Transportation Management: Driving safely or arranging alternative transportation.
Shopping & Meal Preparation: Grocery shopping, cooking, and ensuring proper nutrition.
Housekeeping & Home Maintenance: Cleaning, tidying up, and handling basic home repairs.
Communication Management: Using a phone, email, or mail services effectively.
Medication Management: Filling prescriptions, taking medications correctly, and following medical instructions.

Assessing and Addressing Functional Needs

Geriatric specialists evaluate ADLs and IADLs as part of a comprehensive assessment of an older adult’s functional status. Declining abilities often signal underlying physical or cognitive health concerns. Early identification of these difficulties allows for timely intervention, ensuring seniors receive the appropriate support and services.

Caregivers play a crucial role in assisting aging individuals who struggle with ADLs or IADLs. Whether through in-home support, assistive technologies, or community resources, addressing these needs enhances safety, dignity, and quality of life for older adults and their families.

By understanding ADLs and IADLs, caregivers and healthcare professionals can better advocate for the necessary care, helping older adults maintain independence for as long as possible.