IADLs and ADLs – What Are They and Why Do They Matter?
As you’re seeking tips on knowing when it’s time to start helping your parents around the home, you keep seeing the terms ADLs and IADLs. What are they?
Caregiver Vienna VA – IADLs and ADLs – What Are They and Why Do They Matter?Activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) are used to help assess an adults ability to handle day-to-day tasks. ADLs are things your parent needs to do in order to care for him/herself. IADLs are a little more complex and deal more with home maintenance and life management. While a person who struggles with IADLs may not be ready for help yet, a person that cannot manage ADLs clearly needs help.
Examples of ADLs and IADLs
ADLs include things like picking up a fork or spoon and feeding oneself or walking from one room to the next. It’s tasks like taking a shower, drying off, and getting dressed. ADLs include brushing and flossing teeth, using a toilet, and getting in and out of bed. It also includes tasks like walking up and down the stairs in the home, sitting down on a sofa, and being able to get back up.
While ADLs are all about basic tasks one does every day, IADLs may not be something this is handled on a daily basis.
These are examples of IADLs.
* Planning a menu, shopping for ingredients, and cooking a meal
* Completing banking transactions and paying bills
* Remembering when and how to take medications and ordering refills when needed
* Using a phone
* Changing linens, doing the laundry, and making the bed
* Driving or arranging a ride
Using Them to Know When Help is Needed
If your parents are struggling with ADLs, it’s time to arrange care. A family caregiver may want to start helping out each day. You may prefer to mix family caregivers and professional caregivers to avoid having to stop working or cutting back on the number of hours you work.
Struggles with IADLs may not require daily care. Someone should be there once a week or a few times a week to help with shopping, housework, and bill paying. A family caregiver may find it easier to arrange to help with IADLs.
Keep track of the things your parents can do independently. When you start noticing issues, caregivers are a great solution. Someone can help your parents at home as needed. Your parents don’t have to move or put their safety at risk. Call our agency to learn more about caregivers and home care services.