What is an example of an instrumental activity of daily living?

An instrumental activity of daily living (IADL) refers to tasks that are more complex than basic activities of daily living (ADLs), which typically include self-care activities. IADLs are essential for an individual to live independently within the community.

Cooking is a clear example of an IADL as it involves planning and preparing meals, which requires various skills and may include managing time and ingredients. Grocery shopping is another IADL because it requires the ability to plan, make choices, and possibly budget for food expenditure.

Doing housework can also be considered an IADL, but it is often categorized more as a general task that supports living arrangements rather than being distinctly tied to independent daily living.

Personal hygiene, on the other hand, is classified as a basic activity of daily living (ADL) because it involves essential self-care practices. It is important, but it does not fit the complexity or community interaction criteria of IADLs.

In summary, both cooking and grocery shopping are prime examples of instrumental activities of daily living due to their demands for planning, execution, and decision-making.