Which of the following best describes Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs)?

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) encompass a range of tasks that are essential for supporting daily life within both home and community settings. These activities extend beyond basic self-care routines, focusing instead on the skills needed for independent living. They include tasks such as managing finances, shopping for groceries, preparing meals, using transportation, performing housework, and managing medications, which are crucial for a person to thrive in their environment.

The designation of IADLs is important because it helps occupational therapists assess an individual’s ability to manage their daily life effectively and identify areas where intervention may be necessary. This understanding emphasizes the broader scope of daily living and independence beyond basic self-care, which aligns with the holistic perspective of occupational therapy.

In contrast, the other options are more limited in scope. Activities related only to personal hygiene do not encompass the wider range of IADLs. Numismatic activities and leisure activities, while important aspects of life, do not fall under the classifications of IADLs as they serve different purposes in terms of daily living and functioning.