Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living
Also written as: IADL — Instrumental Activities of Daily Living
Complex daily tasks requiring higher cognitive and physical functioning than basic self-care activities.
Full Definition
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) encompass complex tasks such as managing finances, shopping, cooking, housekeeping, transportation, and medication management. These activities require integration of cognitive, motor, and social skills and are essential for independent community living. In rehabilitation settings, IADL assessment helps determine discharge planning needs and identifies areas requiring occupational therapy intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Always distinguish from basic ADLs; plural IADLs is standard usage in documentation.
In Context
- "The occupational therapist will assess IADLs including meal preparation and financial management." — Treatment plan
- "IADL deficits necessitate supervised living arrangements upon discharge." — Discharge planning note
Also known as
IADLs
complex daily activities
community living skills
Contrasted with
basic ADLs
self-care activities
Don't confuse with
Activities of Daily Living
Advanced Daily Living Skills