IADLs
IADLs (Instrumental Activities of Daily Living) are key life skills that people need to live independently in their communities. Unlike basic activities like getting dressed, IADLs are more complex tasks such as managing money, cooking meals, or using transportation. Healthcare workers use this term when describing how they help clients maintain or improve their independence. Similar terms include "functional skills" or "life skills." When you see this in a resume, it means the candidate has experience helping people become more self-sufficient in their daily lives.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted assessments of IADLs for elderly clients living independently
Developed treatment plans to improve client IADLs and community integration
Trained caregivers in supporting patients with IADLs and daily routines
Typical job title: "Occupational Therapists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Occupational Therapists
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop and implement an IADL training program for a rehabilitation facility?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should include experience in program development, staff training, assessment methods, and measuring outcomes. They should mention coordinating with other healthcare professionals and adapting programs for different patient needs.
Q: How do you handle complex cases where patients have multiple conditions affecting their IADLs?
Expected Answer: Look for answers showing experience in creating comprehensive care plans, coordinating with medical teams, and adapting approaches based on multiple conditions. They should demonstrate problem-solving skills and knowledge of various treatment methods.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What assessment tools do you use to evaluate IADLs?
Expected Answer: They should be able to name specific assessment tools and explain how they use them to measure patient progress. Look for understanding of documentation requirements and ability to adjust treatment plans based on assessments.
Q: How do you involve family members in IADL training?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience in family education, demonstrating techniques to caregivers, and creating home exercise programs. Look for good communication skills and ability to teach others.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the main categories of IADLs?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic categories like meal preparation, medication management, money management, transportation use, and home maintenance, showing understanding of what makes up IADLs.
Q: How do you document IADL progress?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic progress note writing, goal setting, and tracking improvements in patient capabilities. Look for understanding of documentation requirements.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic IADL assessments
- Documentation of patient progress
- Following established treatment plans
- Basic patient safety awareness
Mid (2-5 years)
- Creating individualized treatment plans
- Family/caregiver training
- Complex assessment administration
- Treatment modification based on progress
Senior (5+ years)
- Program development and implementation
- Staff training and supervision
- Complex case management
- Quality improvement initiatives
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic assessment tools
- Lack of experience with documentation requirements
- Poor knowledge of safety procedures
- No experience with direct patient care
- Unable to explain basic IADL categories
Related Terms
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