Resources · Educational Guide
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
A simple guide to understanding independence, safety, and support needs for older adults and their families.
Healthcare professionals, caregivers, and families often use Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) to understand how independently someone is functioning.
This guide can help families recognize where support may be needed and identify opportunities for planning before a crisis occurs.
Section 1
The Six Core ADLs
Bathing
Questions to Ask
- ?Can they safely bathe themselves?
- ?Can they enter and exit the shower safely?
- ?Are there concerns about hygiene?
Signs to Watch For
- Avoiding bathing
- Increased fall risk
- Difficulty standing
Dressing
Questions to Ask
- ?Can they dress independently?
- ?Can they manage buttons and zippers?
Signs to Watch For
- Wearing the same clothing repeatedly
- Difficulty dressing appropriately
Toileting
Questions to Ask
- ?Can they safely use the restroom?
- ?Can they maintain hygiene?
Signs to Watch For
- Increased accidents
- Difficulty getting to the bathroom
Transferring
Questions to Ask
- ?Can they safely move from bed to chair?
- ?Can they stand independently?
Signs to Watch For
- Falls
- Balance concerns
- Difficulty standing
Continence
Questions to Ask
- ?Are there concerns with bladder or bowel control?
Signs to Watch For
- Hygiene issues
- Increased accidents
Eating
Questions to Ask
- ?Can they prepare meals?
- ?Can they feed themselves?
Signs to Watch For
- Weight loss
- Missed meals
- Spoiled food
Section 2
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs)
IADLs are more complex life skills that support independent living. Many families first notice challenges here before seeing difficulties with core ADLs.
These changes can be early indicators that additional support or planning may be beneficial.
Section 3
Self-Reflection Checklist
Check any concerns that apply to your family's current situation:
If multiple items are checked, families may benefit from additional planning and support.
CLEAR Clarity Check-Up
Not Sure What These Changes Mean?
The CLEAR Transition Check helps families better understand transition readiness, support needs, and possible next steps.
Take the CLEAR Transition CheckDownload ADL Assessment Checklist (PDF)
Coming soon — a printable version of this guide for families and caregivers.
This guide is intended for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Families should consult qualified healthcare professionals regarding medical concerns.