You may have heard of the word ADLs but do you know what does it mean? ADL is an abbreviation of Activities of Daily Living. It is common used in the health care service industry. It refers to daily self care activities within your residence and/or outdoor environments. Healthcare professionals always check with the patients and measure their needs of ADLs to further the services.

Most elderly/ companion caregiving jobs require caregiver to assist the patients to perform each of the tasks smoothly.

Why is it important to assist the patients with everyday activities?

Most people find that their lives are getting difficult and they can be frustrated through times. As the age increases, people will lose the ability to do many simple activities of daily living. As an in-home personal care, you are there to make their lives easier so they can enjoy their lives more. You are to help maintain and improve the quality of their lives.

There are five main ADLs:

1. Bathing: personal hygiene and grooming
2. Dressing: dressing and undressing
3. Transferring: movement and mobility
4. Toileting: continence-related tasks including control and hygiene
5. Eating: preparing food and feeding

There are also:

1. Ambulating: assisting with walking with or without canes, crutches, walkers, etc.
2. Taking medication: reminding to take care medication on time
3. Positioning: changing positions in a chair or bed

Many activities are part of everyday life. It is important to remember that patients seek assistant because they cannot perform these tasks on their own very well. Remember to be patient, calm, professional and safe when assist them with any of these tasks. You have to keep them safe and healthy from day to day.

Sources: http://www.care4hire.com/tips/21-elderly-companion-caregiving-jobs/, http://www.seniorhousingnet.com/assisted-living/adlsandiadls.aspx, http://services.dpw.state.pa.us/pch_comptest/Modules/module3.html