Navigating Daily Life: Understanding ADLs and IADLs

As our loved ones age, certain activities that were once routine motions throughout the day may become more challenging. There are two terms for these actions, Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). At Kore Cares, we specialize in home care services, offering assistance that enables individuals to maintain their independence and quality of life. Let's explore what ADLs and IADLs are and how our caregiving services can make a meaningful impact.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs):

ADLs are fundamental self-care tasks that individuals need to perform often for personal hygiene and well-being. These activities are essential for maintaining a basic level of independence. Some examples of ADLs are:

  1. Personal Cares:

    • Bathing or showering

    • Grooming (brushing teeth, combing hair)

    • Nail care

    • Dressing

  2. Mobility:

    • Transferring (e.g., moving from bed to chair)

    • Ambulation (walking or moving around)

    • Maintaining balance and coordination

3.       Eating:

    • Eating independently

    • Swallowing safely

  1. Toileting and Continence:

    • Using the toilet or managing incontinence

    • Managing bowel and bladder function

  2. Basic Cognitive Skills:

    • Memory

    • Problem-solving

    • Decision-making

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs):

IADLs are more complex tasks that are crucial for independent living. These activities often require a higher level of cognitive and organizational skills. Some examples of IADLs include:

  1. Meal Preparation:

    • Planning and preparing nutritious meals

  2. Household Maintenance:

    • Cleaning and maintaining the home

    • Doing laundry

    • Managing finances and bills

  3. Shopping:

    • Grocery shopping

    • Running errands

  4. Transportation:

    • Driving or arranging transportation

    • Managing appointments and schedules

  5. Communication:

    • Using the telephone or other communication devices

    • Writing and sending emails or letters

  6. Medication Management:

    • Remembering to take medications on time

    • Refilling prescriptions

Non-Skilled Home Care Services at Kore Cares:

Our home care services at Kore Cares are tailored to assist individuals with both ADLs and IADLs. Our compassionate caregivers provide support with personal care, mobility, and basic cognitive skills, ensuring that your loved ones maintain their dignity and independence.

Understanding the distinction between ADLs and IADLs is key to providing the right level of support for your loved ones. At Kore Cares, our services are designed to address these needs with compassion and professionalism. By entrusting us with the care of your family members, you can rest assured that they will receive the assistance they need to navigate daily life with comfort and dignity. For more information on our services, visit www.korecares.com/services or call 888-546-0704.

 

Haley Vik