Instrumental Activities of Daily Living
Also written as: IADL — Instrumental Activities of Daily Living
Complex daily tasks requiring higher cognitive function, assessed in neurological rehabilitation.
Full Definition
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) are complex activities that require higher-order cognitive and executive functions, often impaired in neurological conditions. These include managing finances, medication management, meal preparation, shopping, housekeeping, transportation, and telephone use. IADL assessments help determine a patient's capacity for independent community living. Unlike basic ADL, IADL tasks require problem-solving, planning, and judgment skills that may be compromised following brain injury or in neurodegenerative diseases.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize when using the acronym IADL. More complex than basic ADL and requires intact executive function.
In Context
- "IADL deficits were evident in the patient's inability to manage medications independently." — Neuropsychological assessment report
- "The rehabilitation team developed compensatory strategies for IADL performance." — Discharge planning documentation