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Evaluating Level of Care Assistance

Activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) describe the fundamental skills required for a person to independently care for themselves. ADLs and IADLs are clear indicators in determining the amount of supplemental care you may need.

This assisted living assessment will help determine the personalized support you may need with daily tasks. Unlike a skilled nursing facility, assisted living communities focus on providing this personal assistance. Since your care level is often associated with costs, having a strong understanding of the support you need can help you plan for the future with confidence.

Use the assessment below to check your level of function as it relates to each activity.

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Cedarhurst Senior Living created this assessment to assist you and your family in exploring senior care and living options. Based on your responses, we will provide personalized recommendations to support your next steps. We are committed to protecting your personal information. By completing this assessment and providing your information, you consent to its use in accordance with our website privacy policy. To learn more about how we protect your privacy, click here. To learn more about Cedarhurst Senior Living, click here.

ADLs vs. IADLs

Understanding the Differences in Daily Living Activities

Compare the daily tasks associated with ADLs and IADLs. 

ADLs

ADLs are the basic activities a person engages in each day. This includes personal care activities such as:

  • Getting Dressed
  • Eating
  • Personal Hygiene
  • Bathroom Assistance

IADLs

IADLs consist of more complex activities such as:

  • Preparing Meals
  • Managing Medications
  • Driving & Errands
  • Housekeeping Tasks

Learning how well you’re managing ADLs and IADLs will help determine if it’s wise to stay in your current residence or if you need more regular hands-on care, such as that provided in a senior living community.

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How to Take the Assessment

To take the ADL and IADL assessment below, consider the day-to-day personal functions listed in the  “ADL/IADL Functions” (e.g., bathing, eating, and so on). Rank how you perform each function based on the following senior assistance levels:

Able to Do Without Any Help

I can perform this function on my own without help from another person.

Able to Do with a Little Help

I can perform this function but may need minimal assistance with some aspects of it.

Able to Do with a Lot of Help

I have difficulty with this function and need a lot of assistance to complete it.

Unable to Do on Their Own

I am unable to perform this function and rely on others to perform the task for me.

checklist example

For each ADL/IADL function row, select the option that matches your ability to perform the function.

For example, if you can bathe on your own with no assistance, you would select “Can do on my own." Select an option in each row to ensure you receive an accurate score.

ADL Function

ADLs describe the basic tasks necessary to live and function independently in day-to-day life. These essential functions include the following:

Able to Do Without Any Help
Able to Do with a Little Help
Able to Do with a Lot of Help
Unable to Do on Their Own
Bathing
This consists of the ability to bathe daily, whether with or without tools such as a shower chair or grab bars.
Personal Hygiene
This includes tasks such as brushing teeth, nail care, and combing hair.
Dressing
This consists of the ability to select appropriate clothing and outerwear for the season and occasion and to put the clothes on by yourself.
Use of the Bathroom
This means you may need help getting to and from the restroom.
Transfers
This is the ability to get into and out of a bed or a chair without assistance.
Escorting
This is the ability to walk from one place to another without assistance from another person.
Dining
This consists of the ability to get food from the plate to your mouth.

IADL Function

IADLs are more complex functions that require problem-solving, planning, and organizational skills, including:

Able to Do Without Any Help
Able to Do with a Little Help
Able to Do with a Lot of Help
Unable to Do on Their Own
Shopping
This consists of going to the store for groceries and other necessities.
Cooking
This consists of regularly preparing meals for yourself.
Medication Management
This consists of the ability to obtain and take medications as directed.
Coordination of Care
This consists of the ability to coordinate with healthcare providers to manage appointments and other medical needs.
Housekeeping
This includes the ability to perform tasks to keep the residence clean and well-maintained, such as vacuuming, wiping down surfaces, sweeping, and mopping.
Laundry
This is the ability to maintain clean clothing and launder clothing as needed.
Driving or Using Public Transportation
This is the ability to attend events, go shopping, and do other activities by driving yourself or arranging other means of transportation.
Managing Finances
This includes the ability to manage financial assets and pay bills.

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