ADLs and ADLs. "In three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about life: It’s goes on.” Robert Frost
The Difference Between IADLs AND ADLs
(Instrumental Activities of Daily Living and Activities of Daily Living)
IADLs, or Instrumental Activities of Daily Living typically precede ADLs because they include more complex thinking skills. One acronym is SCUM: shopping, cooking/cleaning, using the telephone or transportation, managing money and medications –
being able to live independently.
ADLs, Activities of Daily Living, activities usually performed in a normal day are anagrammed as BATTED: bathing, ambulation, toileting, transferring, eating, and dressing. If your loved one has reached this level of needing care, assisted living might be considered.
Both might require some form of outside help including home modifications like widening doorways, installing ramps and handrails, lowering kitchen counters so they can be accessed from a sitting position, removing tripping hazards like area rugs or furniture, modifying a shower or bathtub, and better lighting enable the care receiver the option to age in place. In sum, maintaining a safe environment is essential.