What does the medical term ADL stand for?

In the medical world, particularly in dealing with disabled individuals and older people, the acronym ADL stands for activities of daily living. This includes any activity that a person normally performs on their own, such as getting dressed, brushing his teeth, combing his hair, cooking food, eating, toileting and managing medication.

A person's ability to perform activities of daily living or a person's inability to provide their own self-care is often used as a measurement of disability. An ADL level may be determined to judge whether or not a person is capable of living on their own or if they need help with normal everyday activities.