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Activities of Daily Living

From , former About.com Guide

Updated: October 01, 2008

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Going to the bathroom without assistance is an activity of daily living.

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Definition: Basic skills necessary to live semi-independently, such as feeding, dressing, bathing, grooming, being mobile, and going to the bathroom without assistance.

As Alzheimer's disease progresses, the ability to carry out activities of daily living eventually disappears. This deterioration is preceded by problems with instrumental activities of daily living, such as housekeeping and money management.

Also Known As: ADLs
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