Activities of Daily Living
Also written as: ADL — Activities of Daily Living
Basic self-care tasks assessed and trained in neurological rehabilitation programs.
Full Definition
Activities of Daily Living (ADL) refer to fundamental self-care tasks that neurological patients must relearn or adapt following brain injury, stroke, or neurodegenerative conditions. These include bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, transferring, and continence. ADL assessments form the cornerstone of rehabilitation planning and outcome measurement. Occupational therapists typically lead ADL training, using adaptive techniques and assistive technologies to maximize patient independence.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize when using the acronym ADL. Distinguish from IADL (Instrumental Activities of Daily Living).
In Context
- "The patient's ADL scores improved significantly after six weeks of intensive occupational therapy." — Rehabilitation progress note
- "ADL training focused on adaptive dressing techniques for patients with hemiparesis." — Treatment plan documentation