What does "ADLs" refer to in the context of patient care?

In the context of patient care, "ADLs" stands for Activities of Daily Living. These refer to the basic self-care tasks that individuals perform daily to maintain their personal health and hygiene. Examples of activities included under ADLs are bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and toileting. Understanding ADLs is crucial for continuing care assistants as they often assess a patient's ability to perform these tasks independently. Supporting individuals with their ADLs is a fundamental component of promoting their health, dignity, and quality of life. This concept is foundational in providing effective and compassionate care within various health settings.