Which activities are considered instrumental ADLs requiring greater physical and mental abilities?

Instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) refer to the skills necessary for independent living and require more complex cognitive and physical abilities compared to basic activities of daily living (ADLs). Shopping and laundry fit this definition well because they involve planning, organization, physical mobility, and sometimes, problem-solving skills to manage tasks effectively.

Shopping requires an individual to not only physically navigate through a store but also to make decisions on budgeting, selecting items, and possibly transporting them home. Similarly, doing laundry involves understanding how to sort clothes, operate machines, and follow the steps necessary to ensure clothing is properly cleaned and maintained. Both activities reflect a higher level of independence and require the individual to actively engage with their environment.

In contrast, activities like eating and grooming are typically classified as basic ADLs, which deal with personal care needs and are usually less complex. Mailing letters and visiting friends, while they do involve elements of planning and social interaction, do not typically demand the same level of physical exertion or organizational skills as shopping and laundry. Taking medication and making phone calls may pertain to health management and communication but generally fall short of requiring the broader scope of physical and mental capabilities characteristic of IADLs, especially in the context of managing household tasks.