Activities of Daily Living - Instrumental ADLs

Instrumental ADLs

Instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) are not necessary for fundamental functioning, but they let an individual live independently in a community:

• Housework
• Taking medications as prescribed
• Managing money
• Shopping for groceries or clothing
• Use of telephone or other form of communication
• Using technology (as applicable)
• Transportation within the community

A useful mnemonic is SHAFT: shopping, housekeeping, accounting, food preparation/meds, telephone/transportation.

Occupational therapists often evaluate IADLs when completing patient assessments. Assessments may include 9 types of IADLs that are generally optional in nature and can be delegated to others:

• Care of others (including selecting and supervising caregivers)
• Care of pets
• Child rearing
• Use of communication devices
• Community mobility
• Financial management
• Health management and maintenance
• Meal preparation and cleanup
• Safety procedures and emergency responses