8 Measures of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Competency

How well are you managing common household tasks?

Lawton Brody IADL Scale to Measure Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Capabilities

Don't take for granted that you or your loved one are getting everything around the house done well. You may need help with these tasks:

1. Using the phone

2. Going shopping

3. Preparing meals

4. Cleaning and maintaining the house

5. Doing the laundry

6. Managing Medications

7. Handling finances

8. Arranging transportation

Today, there are a lot more available services to fill in any gaps from ordering groceries and toiletries online to shared ride services.

To figure out where my father needed help and how much help was required we relied on the Lawton Brody Scale to measure how well he completed what is referred to as the "Instrumental Activities of Daily Living" or "IADL." Download a copy to test your skills in these areas.

Source: "try this: Best Practices in Nursing Care to Older Adults," Carla Graf, MS, APRN, BC, The Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing, New York University, College of Nursing, Issue Number 2, Revised 2007, www.hartfordign.org and/or www.ConsultGeriRN.org.