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Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) are two categories used to describe essential daily activities that are important for self-care and independent living. They differ in complexity and the type of skills they require.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

ADLs are basic self-care tasks that are fundamental to a person’s everyday functioning. They are often used to assess an individual’s ability to live independently. ADLs include:

Bathing: Washing oneself, including using a tub, shower, or sponge bath.

Dressing: Putting on and taking off clothes and any necessary accessories.

Eating: The ability to feed oneself.

Grooming: Personal hygiene activities like brushing teeth, combing hair, and shaving.

Mobility: Moving around the house, walking, and using stairs.

Toileting: Using the toilet, cleaning oneself, and managing any related personal hygiene needs.

Transferring: Moving from one position to another, such as from a bed to a chair.

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs)

IADLs are more complex activities that are necessary for living independently but are not as basic as ADLs. They require higher-level thinking and organizational skills. IADLs include:

Laundry: Accessing and operating washing machines, sorting clothes, and folding and putting away laundry.

Light Housework: Tasks such as sweeping, vacuuming, washing floors, dusting, and taking out the garbage.

Meal Preparation and Clean-up: Planning meals, cooking, and cleaning up after meals.

Shopping: Making a shopping list, purchasing groceries, and handling prescriptions.

Taking Medication: Managing and consuming prescribed or over-the-counter medications.

Managing Finances: Paying bills, managing bank accounts, and handling money.

Using the Telephone or Other Communication Devices: Making and receiving calls, and using email or other communication tools.

Transportation: Driving or using public transport to get around.

Key Differences

Complexity: ADLs are basic self-care tasks, while IADLs are more complex and involve managing a household and living independently.

Skills Required: ADLs require basic physical and cognitive abilities, whereas IADLs require higher-level cognitive functioning and organizational skills.

Assessment Use: ADLs are often used to determine eligibility for services like home care or assisted living, while IADLs can help assess an individual's ability to live independently and manage their own household.