BASIC ADLs

Basic ADLs consist of self-care tasks that are necessary for the most fundamental aspects of functioning. They include, but are not limited to, these areas:

1. Functional Mobility:

   • Transferring (moving in or out of bed or a chair unassisted – mechanical transfer aids may be used)
   • Locomotion (moving to different areas in the same room or on the same floor, within the home or on a level surface outside, by walking alone or using a cane, walker, wheelchair, or scooter) while performing activities

2. Bathing:

   • Washing one’s entire body
   • Getting in and out of tub or shower
   • Sponge bathing

3. Dressing:

   • Taking clothes from drawers and closets
   • Putting on and taking off clothes and outer garments, including fasteners

4. Self-feeding:

   • Getting food from plate to mouth

5. Personal hygiene and grooming:

   • Brushing / combing / styling hair
   • Trimming nails

6. Maintaining Control Over Urination and Release of Stool:

   • Maintaining complete self-control over urination and defecation

7. Toileting:

   • Getting to the toilet or remote toileting receptacle
   • Sitting down or otherwise aligning oneself over the toilet or the remote toileting receptacle
   • Discharging urine and/or feces
   • Cleaning oneself
   • Getting back up or moving off the remote toileting receptacle
   • Dumping contents of remote toileting receptacle into the toilet
   • Flushing the toilet
   • Arranging and fastening clothing

Simply stated, basic ADLs are the tasks people do when they get up in the morning and prepare to go out of the house: get out of bed, go to the toilet, bathe, dress, groom, and eat.

Below is a sampling of products and equipment that are designed to help you complete your basic ADLs for a longer period of time. Click on the links to find out more information, see other products selections, and if you like, to make a purchase from one of our providers.