What does the term "Activities of Daily Living" (ADLs) refer to?

The term "Activities of Daily Living" (ADLs) specifically refers to the basic tasks essential for self-care that an individual performs on a daily basis. These activities generally include fundamental tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, and transferring (moving from one position to another). ADLs are critical for assessing an individual's functional status and ability to live independently. When a person requires assistance with these activities, it often indicates a need for support or long-term care services.

In contrast to the correct definition, social activities in the community encompass interactions and participation in community events, which is not the primary focus of ADLs. Medical procedures performed in hospitals involve clinical interventions and treatments rather than daily self-care activities. Lastly, entertainment activities for residents pertain to leisure and recreational pursuits, which do not fall under the category of basic self-care tasks described by ADLs. Understanding the distinction between these types of activities is essential in the context of long-term care, where the ability to perform ADLs is a key factor in determining the level of care needed.