What Qualifies as Activities of Daily Living?

If you or a loved one are considering senior living, Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are measured to assess a senior’s level of independence. Activities of Daily Living are routine activities someone can perform on their own without the assistance of a caregiver. These basic activities can be performed daily without help.

A person’s ability to perform ADLs will help decide what level of care is needed or if long-term care is necessary, as well as determine medical status for health coverage. Though there are some variances in what qualifies as an ADL, there are five basic Activities of Daily Living that most organizations agree must be performed to safely maintain independent living.

1. Eating

The ability to feed oneself is considered one of the basic activities a person must be able to do without assistance. This does not include prepping and making the meal, of which help may be obtained.

2. Dressing

An individual must be able to physically dress and undress without help from a family member or caregiver. This also includes being able to select proper clothing for different occasions.

3. Personal Hygiene

Activities of Daily Living include the ability to maintain daily hygiene. This includes having the physical capacity to bathe or shower, groom oneself, and maintain nail, hair, and oral care.

4. Continence Management

Another basic activity is the ability to control bowel and bladder functions, as well as being able to get to and from the toilet and clean oneself.

5. Mobility

Mobility includes the extent to which a person can change positions and walk independently from one location to another. Is your loved one able to sit, stand, and walk without assistance? What about getting in and out of bed?

Understanding the Importance of ADLs

ADLs play an important role in determining what degree a senior can maintain independent living or what level of care is needed. ADLs are important to consider because they affect quality of life and safety. Is your loved one able to prepare their own meals or manage their own prescription medication? Or do they need reminders of what to take, how much, and when? Can they safely drive, take public transportation, or maintain a clean environment? A senior left alone who struggles with mobility could slip in the shower or fall down the stairs.

If you or your loved one needs assistance with these activities, it may be time to consider in-home care or transitioning into an assisted living community. Within a senior living community, a team of skilled physicians, nurses, and health aids monitor and provide 24-hour care and assistance. A senior who can only perform a few, if any, ADLs without assistance may opt for assisted living so they can maintain their lifestyle while receiving the care they need.

When it’s time to choose an assisted living community, the Mission at Agua Fria Senior Living is here to provide comprehensive and compassionate care services. We offer a variety of unique services, from state-of-the-art memory care to enriching community and recreational activities to 24-hour on-site care staff. Contact us today to schedule a tour. Your loved one deserves a great retirement.