What it means
The everyday tasks a person needs to do to look after their own body: bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, using the toilet, staying continent and moving from bed to chair. Nurses and therapists check how much help a client needs with each one. Bigger tasks such as cooking, shopping, managing money and taking medicines are called instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs).
For the nurse
Help with ADLs in a stable client is a routine task that can be delegated to a UAPyou-ay-pee (said as letters)Unlicensed assistive personnel: trained workers without a nursing license, such as nursing assistants, who help with client care.Full entry . Encourage clients to do as much as they safely can, which keeps strength and independence; an occupational therapistok-yoo-PAY-shun-ul THAIR-uh-pistA health professional who helps people do the everyday tasks of living and working.Full entry can teach new ways and devices.
In a chart
"Client independent with ADLs except needs assistance with lower-body dressing."
At a glance
| Abbreviations | ADL, ADLs; IADLs (instrumental activities of daily living) |
|---|---|
| Spanish | actividades de la vida diaria |
| Also written | activity of daily living, ADL, ADLs |
Related terms
occupational therapist
A health professional who helps people do the everyday tasks of living and working.
ambulate
To walk, or to help a client walk.
hygiene
Care of the body to keep it clean and healthy, such as bathing, mouth care, hair and nail care.
self-care
The things people do for themselves to look after their own health and daily needs.