What is the definition of IADL as an area of occupation?

The definition of IADL, or Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, fittingly describes activities that support daily life. IADLs encompass skills that are necessary for independent living and include tasks such as managing finances, preparing meals, shopping, taking medications, and maintaining a safe environment. These activities are distinct from basic activities of daily living (ADLs), which include personal care tasks like bathing and dressing.

Understanding IADLs is crucial for professionals in occupational therapy because they represent more complex tasks that require higher cognitive function, judgment, and the ability to organize and plan. By supporting individuals in learning or relearning these activities, occupational therapy practitioners facilitate increased independence and improve quality of life.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of IADLs. Restorative activities, while important, do not specifically focus on the broader scope of daily life support. Creative hobbies and fitness routines are valuable for enhancing well-being but are not considered instrumental in the sense of everyday living tasks that require organization and planning.