Activities of daily living, often referred to as ADLs, are everyday tasks that help a person manage their daily routine and live as independently as possible. In aged care, ADLs are used to understand how much support a person may need with day to day activities.

Most of the time, ADLs are broken into two groups: BADLs (basic activities) and IADLs (instrumental activities). Each group plays an important role in determining the level of care and assistance a person may require in an aged care setting.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

These are general self-care tasks that most people learn from a young age. They are often referred to as Basic Activities of Daily Living (BADLs) and include:

  • Walking or moving around the home or outside. This is often referred to as mobility or ambulation
  • Feeding: being able to feed oneself without assistance. This relates to eating, not cooking
  • Dressing: choosing and putting on appropriate clothing
  • Personal hygiene: bathing, grooming, hair care, and oral hygiene
  • Toileting: getting to and from the toilet, using it correctly, and managing personal hygiene
  • Continence: the ability to control bladder and bowel function

Assistance with these tasks is often required in aged care facilities. Seniors living with neurological, physical, or cognitive conditions may need extra help with these daily activities.

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living

Instrumental ADLs are more complex tasks that support independent living within the community. These activities usually require planning, organisation and decision making.

They include:

  • Managing finances: paying bills and managing money
  • Transportation and shopping: buying essentials and arranging transport
  • Meal preparation: preparing meals, including grocery shopping and food storage
  • Communication: managing phone calls, mail, and staying in contact with others
  • Home maintenance: basic housework such as cleaning and laundry
  • Community involvement: participating in social, cultural, or spiritual activities

These tasks can become challenging earlier than basic ADLs and often indicate when additional support may be needed.

What affects the ability to perform ADLs?

There are many factors that can influence a person’s ability to carry out ADLs, including:

  • Chronic or acute illness
  • Natural ageing
  • Circulatory, musculoskeletal, sensory, or neurological conditions
  • Cognitive decline, such as dementia
  • Medication side effects
  • Social isolation
  • Poor home layout or environment

Regular assessments in aged care settings can help identify these challenges early and ensure appropriate care and support are provided.

A Few Final Thoughts

ADLs are an important part of independence and everyday living. When someone struggles with routine tasks, it’s time to review their support needs.

Whether due to ageing, illness, or recovery from surgery, the right level of ADL support can greatly improve comfort, safety, and quality of life at home or in an aged care environment.