Functional Status

Functional Status

Functional status refers to the day-to-day activities of daily living (ADLs) involving activities within physical, psychological, cognitive and social domains. Functional status is influenced by the physiological changes with aging as well as by the presence of chronic diseases, disabilities, medications, environmental factors and psychosocial factors. Functional status can be assessed by using standardized tools such as the Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) or the Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) Scale. These tools measure the ability of older adults to perform basic tasks such as bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, feeding, grooming, using the telephone, managing finances, shopping, preparing meals, doing housework, taking medications and using transportation.

The functional status of older adults can be improved by providing interventions such as:

• Promoting physical activity and exercise to maintain muscle strength, joint mobility, balance and coordination
• Encouraging adequate nutrition and hydration to prevent malnutrition, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance
• Managing chronic diseases and medications to prevent complications, adverse effects and polypharmacy
• Providing assistive devices and adaptive equipment to enhance mobility, safety and independence
• Modifying the environment to reduce hazards, improve accessibility and facilitate self-care
• Educating older adults and caregivers about the normal aging process, health promotion strategies and available resources