IADLs are everyday tasks like managing money, cooking, cleaning, and shopping that support independent living but may become difficult for aging adults to perform alone.
IADLs are everyday tasks like managing money, cooking, cleaning, and shopping that support independent living but may become difficult for aging adults to perform alone.
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) refer to the more complex daily tasks required for independent living. These include managing medications, preparing meals, doing housework, using transportation, handling finances, and shopping for groceries or essentials.Unlike basic ADLs (Activities of Daily Living), which are more focused on self-care, IADLs require higher-level cognitive and physical function. In senior care, the ability to perform IADLs is used to assess a person’s level of independence and whether outside help or a care plan is needed.
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) are the more complex tasks needed to live independently—like managing money, cooking, using transportation, taking medications, and handling housekeeping. They differ from basic ADLs, which include bathing, dressing, and eating.Monitoring IADLs helps identify when a senior may need support even if their basic needs are still met. Decline in IADL ability is often one of the first signs that outside help or care planning is needed. Understanding IADLs gives families and professionals a clearer picture of how well a person is truly functioning day to day.