What are ADLs | 6 Must-Know Activities of Daily Livings 2025

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) in Singapore: What Are They?

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Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) Singapore

Ever wondered about those everyday tasks we all take for granted?

Yep, I’m talking about Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), those basic self-care tasks that are essential for independence.

From making your own meals to just getting around the house, ADLs are a big deal, especially as we age.

And if you’re thinking, “That’s miles away for me!” — think again.

Life can throw curveballs, and it’s never too early to be in the know.

In this post, you’ll discover:

  • What ADLs are and why they’re non-negotiable for maintaining independence
  • Handy equipment that makes these tasks easier
  • How to get an ADL assessment in Singapore
  • Financial strategies to prepare for potential ADL support

 

Plus, I’ll share a not-so-fun fact: A significant number of adults will require assistance with at least one ADL at some point.

It’s a bit daunting, right?

So, if you’re looking to stay ahead of the game and keep your independence as you age, keep reading.

What are ADLs?

Think of ADLs as the basic self-care tasks you’ve been nailing since you were a child – stuff like showering, getting dressed, eating, using the toilet, and moving about.

These activities are a big deal in the insurance and healthcare industries.

Why?

Because if you ever find yourself needing a bit of help with these tasks, schemes like CareShield Life and Eldershield come into the picture to give you financial support.

Depending on your insurance coverage, your life insurance plans might also provide you with payouts upon diagnosis of ADLs – so understanding what it is crucial.

Now, you might be thinking, “That’s cool, but why should I bother now?”

Here’s why:

Life’s unpredictable, and knowing about ADLs is like having an umbrella ready in case it pours – because in Singapore, you never know.

What are the activities of daily living (ADLs)?

They activities of daily living (ADLs) are:

  1. Washing
  2. Dressing
  3. Feeding
  4. Toileting
  5. Moving Around
  6. Transferring

 

Let’s break these down individually.

Washing

Washing is the cornerstone of personal hygiene, and it’s not just about splashing water on your face or having a quick shower.

It’s about the ability to bathe yourself thoroughly, which can be quite the balancing act, especially for the elderly or those with mobility issues.

It’s a ritual that not only keeps you fresh but also plays a vital role in maintaining good health and preventing illnesses.

Dressing

Then there’s Dressing.

It’s not merely picking out your outfit for the day; it’s the full monty of being able to dress and undress without assistance.

Feeding

Feeding – from the tingling taste of laksa or the warmth of a teh tarik; this ADL is about being able to tuck into your meal without a helping hand.

Being able to feed yourself is a slice of independence that’s as crucial as the food on your plate.

In Singapore, where food is nearly a national sport, feeding yourself is the ticket to enjoying the local food scene on your terms.

Toileting

Being able to manage your loo breaks, from start to flush, is key.

In a bustling city where you’re often on the move, maintaining toileting independence is both a comfort and a necessity.

Whether it’s a public restroom at a hawker centre or your sanctuary at home, having control in this area means privacy and dignity stay intact.

Walking or Moving Around

This is about more than just chasing the MRT or dodging the auntie with the tissue packets; it’s about mobility.

In Singapore, getting from point A to B is a part of life’s rhythm.

The ability to move around on your own steam is what keeps you in the fast lane, literally.

Whether it’s navigating the crowded streets of Orchard Road or just moving around your flat, your mobility is your ticket to freedom.

Transferring

For transferring, we’re talking about the physical act of moving your body from one spot to another.

Picture getting out of bed in the morning or settling into your cosy armchair for a spell of evening telly.

It sounds like a piece of cake, but it’s a vital piece of the daily living puzzle, especially for those whose mobility might not be what it used to be.

Transferring is what allows you to maintain a level of independence at home.

Without it, you’d be surprised how quickly you’d need to rely on others, even for the smallest of movements.

What is an ADL assessment and who needs it?

When we talk about an ADL assessment, we’re diving into a practical check-up of how well someone can manage those essential everyday tasks we’ve just talked about.

It’s a bit like taking your car for a service to ensure everything’s running smoothly.

But instead of checking tyre pressure or oil levels, we’re checking in on personal care abilities.

Now, you might be wondering, “Who really needs an ADL assessment?”

Well, it’s particularly crucial for older adults.

As we age, our capacities can get a little crowded and less efficient.

An ADL assessment can help pinpoint where they might need a bit of extra support.

It helps map out the support an older adult might need, be it grab bars in the shower, a raised toilet seat, or a meal delivery service.

How do I get an ADL assessment in Singapore?

If you or a loved one needs this check-up, your first port of call would be your healthcare provider.

A general practitioner, an occupational therapist, or a physiotherapist can perform this assessment, and they’re not hard to find, with clinics dotted around our island.

The healthcare professional will ask about your daily routines, understand any challenges faced, and perform a physical check to gauge your mobility and other functional abilities.

If you’re doing this for your ageing parents or grandparents, you can start by reaching out to their doctor or contacting a community health centre.

Singapore’s healthcare system is pretty on the ball with services tailored for seniors, so assistance is always at hand.

Sometimes, an ADL assessment might also be necessary for medical or insurance reasons.

In such cases, you might need an assessment report for applications to schemes like Eldershield or CareShield Life, which provide a financial safety net if self-care becomes tricky down the line.

And remember, you’re not alone in this.

From government-linked bodies like the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) to various support services and subsidies, Singapore’s got a robust system to help citizens navigate these assessments.

What are the lists of commonly used equipment for ADLs?

There are many equipments used for those struggling with ADLs, but here are some of the common ones and how they help.

Firstly, walkers are a common sight, providing stability and support for those who need a little help getting around.

In the bathroom, where slick tiles can pose a risk, shower chairs offer a secure place to sit, making bathing safer and more comfortable.

These chairs are particularly useful for anyone who struggles with standing for long periods, reducing the risk of slips and falls in a wet environment.

Alongside the shower chair, an elevated toilet seat can make a significant difference.

It raises the height of the toilet, easing the strain on the legs and back when sitting down or standing up.

This simple modification can enhance comfort and autonomy in what should be a private affair.

Hearing aids are another essential tool, not just for enhancing the ability to engage in conversations but also for ensuring safety.

They allow individuals to hear alarms, doorbells, and other important sounds, connecting them more fully to their surroundings.

Lastly, medical alert devices are a critical safety net for those at risk of falls or medical emergencies.

Worn as pendants or bracelets, these devices can summon help with the press of a button, providing peace of mind for both the wearer and their loved ones.

Each of these devices plays a crucial role in supporting the daily lives of individuals, enabling them to manage their ADLs with confidence and dignity, right here in the heart of Singapore.

Where can I find assistance with ADLs for a family member or loved one?

In Singapore, finding assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) for a family member or loved one is facilitated by a variety of community and healthcare resources designed to support families in caring for their elderly or disabled members.

Here’s where you can turn to for help:

Community-Based Services

Start with local community centres and social service offices.

These hubs often have connections to meal delivery services, home modification support, and personal care assistance.

They are a good starting point for finding the right kind of help and can direct you to other resources if needed.

Healthcare Institutions

Polyclinics and hospitals can provide medical assessments and refer you to occupational therapists who can offer practical advice and assistance for managing ADLs.

They can help assess your loved one’s needs and recommend specific aids or adjustments to their living environment to improve their ability to perform ADLs independently.

Home Care Services

There are numerous private home care agencies in Singapore that offer a range of services from full-time nursing care to occasional visits from healthcare professionals.

These services can include help with personal hygiene, feeding, and mobility tasks, tailored to the individual’s needs.

Agency for Integrated Care (AIC)

The AIC serves as a touchpoint for eldercare services in Singapore.

They offer information and support for caregivers, connecting you with the right services, from financial assistance to caregiving support.

You can visit their website or their centres to find out more about the resources available.

Social Service Agencies

These agencies often run programs that assist with ADLs.

They work in conjunction with government initiatives and can offer both direct assistance and advice on accessing subsidies or other forms of support.

For any Singaporean dealing with the care of a loved one, these resources provide a strong support network.

Making use of them not only helps ease the burden of daily care but also ensures that your loved ones maintain their dignity and quality of life as they manage their ADLs.

What are the differences between ADLs and IADLs?

When you hear the terms ADLs and IADLs, think of them as 2 levels in the game of life.

ADLs, or Activities of Daily Living, are your foundational self-care tasks.

These are the must-dos that keep you ticking over day-to-day – like bathing, dressing, and feeding yourself.

IADLs, or Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, are the next level up.

They’re the complex skills that help you not just survive, but thrive in your community.

These include preparing food – not just reheating chicken rice but planning and cooking nutritious meals that keep you hearty and healthy.

Then there’s transportation and shopping.

While ADLs get you out of bed, IADLs get you out of the house, onto the MRT or bus, and into the supermarket, navigating the aisles for your basic needs.

Managing bills and medications on time is another critical IADL.

It’s one thing to earn and spend your dollars, but quite another to budget, pay bills, and remember when to take your meds, keeping your finances and health on track.

Lastly, we have companionship – integral to mental health.

While ADLs see you through those solitary tasks, IADLs connect you to others, offering that invaluable kopi catch-up with a friend or a heartwarming call to a relative.

How can I financially prepare myself and my family members should we be unable to perform ADLs?

Preparing financially for the possibility that you or your family members might one day be unable to perform Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) is a prudent step, especially in Singapore, where healthcare is robust but can also be costly.

Here’s how you can start planning:

  1. Long-term Care Insurance: Consider purchasing long-term care insurance like CareShield Life or ElderShield, which are national insurance schemes designed to provide financial support to Singaporeans who become severely disabled, especially in old age.

These schemes pay out a monthly sum that can help cover the costs of care needed for daily tasks.

  1. Health Insurance: Ensure that you have comprehensive health insurance that covers immediate medical expenses, especially since those struggling with ADLs are at higher risk of injuries.
  2. Disability Insurance: You can get disability insurance coverage through term life insurance policies or whole life plans, though most are for total and permanent disability.

However, there are specific policies that cover ADLs such as the AIA Secure Flexi Term or the HSBC Life – Life Treasure, so watch out for those.

Some insurance policies also offer riders for disability income, which provide additional financial support if you’re unable to work due to severe health issues.

Heck, you can consider getting a disability income policy too, like the Singlife Disability Income.

tft existing insurance policies

That’s why you should track all your insurance policies in a single place and track them like how we did it above using The Financial Toolkit. This way, you can specifically see what you’re covered for.

In this case, you only have $1,000/month in payouts if you’re struck with 2 ADLs. If this is not enough, you’ll either need to upgrade your CareShield Life supplement or purchase an additional disability income policy.

  1. Medisave and MediShield Life: Regularly contribute to and maintain your Medisave account, which can be used for medical expenses including long-term care costs.

Additionally, MediShield Life provides a safety net for all Singaporeans against large hospital bills and certain costly outpatient treatments, helping to alleviate financial stress from unexpected health issues.

So make sure you understand the ins and outs of what MediShield Life can help you with.

  1. Savings and Investments: Build a robust savings and investment portfolio that can provide additional funds when needed.

Consider getting an investment plan to set aside a specific fund for health and long-term care needs.

Investing in diversified assets can also help grow your funds over time, providing a larger buffer to manage care expenses.

  1. Legal Preparation: Set up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) to ensure that decisions about your health and finances can be made according to your wishes if you’re unable to do so yourself.

This legal document allows you to appoint one or more persons to make decisions on your behalf.

  1. Financial Planning with Professionals: Consult with financial planners or eldercare specialists who can provide personalised advice based on your financial situation and potential needs.

They can help you craft a strategy that includes estate planning, retirement planning, and contingencies for health-related expenses.

By taking these steps, you can secure your financial future and ensure that you and your family members are well-prepared should the ability to perform ADLs independently become compromised.

This not only provides peace of mind but also ensures that you can focus on health and recovery without the added stress of financial strain.

Conclusion

Alright, let’s wrap this up!

We’ve taken a good look at Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) in Singapore – from the nitty-gritty of what they are, to the essential tools that help make these tasks a bit easier, and even how you can prepare financially in case you or your loved ones ever need some extra help with these daily essentials.

It’s all about maintaining that independence and dignity, no matter what life throws your way.

Navigating ADLs, figuring out the necessary assessments, and understanding all the financial planning involved can be a tad overwhelming, right?

It’s a lot to juggle, especially when you’re busy living life to the fullest in our bustling city.

If all this talk about planning and preparing has your head spinning, don’t worry – you’re not alone.

If you’re feeling a bit lost or just need some friendly advice, why not have a chat with one of our financial advisor partners?

They’re clued up on all this and more, and they’re here to help you sort it all out – absolutely free of charge.

Just a casual conversation to help you find your footing in the world of ADLs and financial planning.

No sales pitch, just solid advice.

Click here for a chat.

Picture of Firdaus Syazwani
Firdaus Syazwani
In 1999, Firdaus's mother bought an endowment plan from an insurance agent to gift him $20,000. However, after 20 years of paying premiums, Firdaus discovered that the policy was actually a whole life plan with a sum assured of $20,000, and they didn't receive any money back. This experience inspired Firdaus to create dollarbureau.com, so that others won't face the same problem of being misled or not understanding what they are purchasing – which he sees as a is a huge problem in the industry.

Disclaimer: Each article written obtained its information from reliable sources and should be purely used for informational purposes only. The information provided by Dollar Bureau and its affiliated parties is not meant to be construed as financial advice. Dollar Bureau shall not be held liable for any inaccuracies, mistakes, omissions, and losses incurred should you act upon any information listed on this website. We recommend readers to seek financial planning advice from qualified financial advisors. 

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