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ADLs & IADLs AT OPTIONS

Daily Living Skills That Support Real Independence

At OPTIONS Transitions to Independence, independence is built through daily practice, not just instruction.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) form the foundation of adult life. These skills are taught intentionally, practiced consistently, and reinforced across academics, independent living, recreation, and community engagement.

Independence Is Built in the Details

Many young adults understand big goals — college, work, independence — but struggle with the daily systems that make those goals sustainable.

ADLs and IADLs support:

  • Consistency and routine

  • Health and safety

  • Decision-making and accountability

  • Confidence in daily life

At OPTIONS, these skills are not assumed — they are explicitly taught and coached.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

ADLs focus on essential self-care skills that support personal well-being and safety.

These skills include:

  • Personal hygiene and grooming

  • Eating and basic nutrition

  • Sleep routines

  • Mobility and physical self-care

  • Awareness of health and safety needs

Students learn not just what to do, but how to maintain routines independently over time.

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs)

IADLs are the higher-level skills required to live independently in the community. They require planning, organization, and judgment — areas where many students need intentional support.

Managing Transportation

Students learn to navigate their community safely and efficiently, including:

  • Using public transportation

  • Planning routes and schedules

  • Understanding transportation costs

  • Developing awareness of safety and responsibility

Shopping & Meal Preparation

Students build skills in:

  • Creating grocery lists

  • Budgeting for food

  • Planning balanced meals

  • Preparing food safely and efficiently

These skills support long-term health, independence, and financial awareness.

Managing Finances

Financial independence is developed gradually through:

  • Budgeting and tracking expenses

  • Understanding bills and payments

  • Learning the value of saving and planning

  • Making informed financial decisions

Students practice financial responsibility in real contexts.

Managing Medications

Medication management is taught progressively.

While nursing staff may initially support medication administration, students are coached to:

  • Understand prescriptions

  • Follow schedules

  • Communicate health needs

  • Take increasing responsibility as appropriate

Managing Communication

Effective communication is essential for adult life.

Students practice:

  • Professional and personal phone use

  • Email and digital communication

  • Managing appointments and schedules

  • Communicating needs clearly and appropriately

Housecleaning & Home Maintenance

Students learn to maintain healthy living environments through:

  • Cleaning routines

  • Organization systems

  • Laundry skills

  • Understanding shared responsibilities

These skills reinforce accountability and pride in one’s living space.

Instruction That Transfers to Real Life

ADLs and IADLs are taught through:

  • Direct instruction

  • Modeling and guided practice

  • Real-time coaching in apartments and community settings

  • Reflection on choices and outcomes

Skills are reinforced across Independent Living, Recreation, Academics, and Vocational experiences — ensuring learning transfers beyond practice settings.

Growing Independence Over Time

ADL and IADL expectations evolve alongside a student’s phase in the OPTIONS program:

  • Standard Phase: High structure and frequent guidance

  • Modified Phase: Increased responsibility with coaching

  • Extension Phase: Independent management with minimal support

This progression ensures students build confidence before independence is fully expected.

Learn More → Individualized Instruction

Families as Partners

Families receive regular communication and progress updates as students build daily living skills. Collaboration ensures consistency and shared understanding throughout the transition to independence.

Are ADLs & IADLs a Growth Area for Your Student?

Daily living skills are often the difference between dependence and independence.

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