I Can Do It Myself, Thank You Very Much!

Written By NANCY TAYLOR

Learning to adapt to aging as our bodies begin to fail us is HARD. What you can do says a lot about your health. Let’s talk about the daily tasks that tell the real story of independence — and what to do when they start to change.

There are two big acronyms that quietly shape a lot of healthcare decisions as we age: ADLs and IADLs. They stand for the building blocks of daily living — and when these start to shift, so do your care needs.

🧼 ADLs (Activities of Daily Living)

These are the most basic tasks that allow us to function independently:

  • Bathing

  • Dressing

  • Eating

  • Using the toilet

  • Transferring (e.g., getting in/out of bed)

  • Walking

🛒 IADLs (Instrumental Activities of Daily Living)

These are more complex tasks that keep us independent:

  • Managing medications

  • Cooking

  • Cleaning

  • Managing money

  • Using the phone

  • Shopping

  • Transportation

Why they matter:

Subtle declines usually show up in IADLs first — maybe missed bills or skipped meals.

  • ADLs typically follow as health conditions progress or mobility decreases.

  • Healthcare providers use ADLs/IADLs to determine care needs, long-term care insurance eligibility, in-home help, and even living arrangements.

A change in what you can do often means it’s time to adapt — not give up.

How to Adapt Smart

✅ Modify your home for safety
✅ Ask for help with specific tasks
✅ Use technology for reminders, deliveries, and communication
✅ Create a Healthcare Action Plan tailored to your new needs

Your independence isn’t all-or-nothing. The key is knowing where things stand — and planning accordingly.

👉 Want help creating a plan that fits your lifestyle today — and adapts with you?
Let’s talk: nancy@drtadvocacy.com

Cheers!
Dr. T

NANCY TAYLOR
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