Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
At Carter’s Confident Care, we know that deciding when your loved one needs help at home can be overwhelming. One of the most important tools families and healthcare professionals use is assessing Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) — the essential, everyday tasks that allow people to live safely and independently.
What Are ADLs?
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are the basic self-care tasks we all perform every day. For seniors, challenges with these tasks can signal a need for additional support or professional care.
The six core ADLs are:
✅ Bathing and Showering – The ability to get into and out of the shower or tub safely, wash thoroughly, and maintain personal hygiene.
✅ Dressing – Selecting appropriate clothes and putting them on without assistance.
✅ Eating – Feeding oneself or the ability to chew and swallow food safely.
✅ Transferring and Mobility – Moving in and out of bed, chairs, or wheelchairs, and moving safely around the home.
✅ Toileting – Getting to and from the toilet, using it properly, and cleaning oneself afterward.
✅ Continence – The ability to control bladder and bowel function.
When a senior begins to struggle with any of these, it increases the risk of falls, malnutrition, social isolation, and hospitalizations.
Why Are ADLs Important?
ADLs are a key part of understanding a senior’s level of independence and quality of life. They’re used by:
Families to decide when in-home care or extra help may be needed.
Healthcare providers to create care plans or make recommendations.
Insurance companies and programs like Medicaid or Veterans Affairs to determine eligibility for certain services.
Recognizing ADL difficulties early can prevent serious health issues, reduce caregiver stress, and allow seniors to age in place longer and more comfortably.
Beyond ADLs: Understanding IADLs
In addition to ADLs, families should also consider Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) — these are the more complex tasks required to live independently, such as:
✔ Managing medications
✔ Preparing meals
✔ Housekeeping and laundry
✔ Handling finances
✔ Transportation and errands
✔ Using the telephone or other communication tools
While not basic self-care, difficulties with IADLs often point to early signs of cognitive decline or physical limitations and are just as important to address.
How Carter’s Confident Care Supports ADLs and IADLs
Our team of compassionate caregivers is trained to provide hands-on assistance with both ADLs and IADLs. We create personalized care plans that may include:
Bathing and grooming support
Dressing and hygiene assistance
Meal planning and preparation
Mobility and transfer help
Medication reminders
Light housekeeping and companionship
By partnering with families, we ensure seniors remain safe, supported, and confident in their own homes — while giving peace of mind to the ones who love them.
Download Our Free ADL Checklist
Want to assess your loved one’s needs?
Download our Printable ADL & IADL Checklist to help guide your family’s care decisions.
Let’s Work Together
If you’re unsure whether it’s time to bring in extra help, we’re here to help.
Call us today at (386) 361-3839 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.
At Carter’s Confident Care, we’re not just providing services — we’re providing confidence, comfort, and care for your loved one’s next chapter.
