Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Score Calculator
The Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living (ADL) assesses functional status by measuring a patient's ability to perform six basic activities independently. It is widely used to identify functional decline in older adults and to plan care needs.
Formula
Katz ADL Score = Bathing + Dressing + Toileting + Transferring + Continence + Feeding
Each of the six activities is scored as:
- 1 point – Patient performs the activity independently
- 0 points – Patient is dependent on assistance for the activity
Total score range: 0–6
| Score | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 6 | Full independence in all ADLs |
| 4–5 | Moderate independence; mild functional impairment |
| 2–3 | Moderate dependence; significant functional impairment |
| 0–1 | Severe dependence; comprehensive care required |
Assumptions & References
- This calculator implements the Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living, the most widely validated ADL assessment tool in geriatric medicine.
- Each activity is assessed as a binary outcome: independent (1) or dependent (0). Partial assistance is classified as dependent.
- The index evaluates six basic self-care functions: bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, continence, and feeding — ordered from most to least complex in terms of functional loss.
- The tool does not assess instrumental ADLs (IADLs) such as cooking, managing finances, or using transportation; a separate IADL scale (e.g., Lawton-Brody) should be used for those.
- Scores should be interpreted in the context of the patient's baseline, acute illness, and clinical setting. A single score is less informative than serial measurements over time.
- This calculator is intended for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical decisions should be made by qualified healthcare professionals.
- Reference: Katz S, Ford AB, Moskowitz RW, Jackson BA, Jaffe MW. Studies of illness in the aged. The index of ADL: a standardized measure of biological and psychosocial function. JAMA. 1963;185(12):914–919. doi:10.1001/jama.1963.03060120024016
- Reference: Shelkey M, Wallace M. Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living. Try This: Best Practices in Nursing Care to Older Adults. Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing, NYU College of Nursing. Issue 2, 2012.