Katz Index of Independence in ADL
Assesses independence in six basic activities of daily living.
When to use
Functional assessment of older adults and adults with frailty or disabling chronic disease.
Pearls and pitfalls
- The six activities are bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, continence and feeding.
- One point per activity performed without help; the total ranges from 0 to 6.
- Loss usually starts with bathing and ends with feeding, but individual variation exists.
- The scale measures observed or reported independence, not theoretical maximum capacity.
0/6 independent activities
Substantial dependence
Assess fall risk, home support and need for a caregiver.
Formula
Add 1 point for each basic activity performed without help; result from 0 to 6.
Evidence
Standardized basic activities of daily living index, developed to assess function in older adults.
References
- 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
Frequently asked questions
What is Katz Index of Independence in ADL?
Assesses independence in six basic activities of daily living. Functional assessment of older adults and adults with frailty or disabling chronic disease.
How is the result calculated?
Add 1 point for each basic activity performed without help; result from 0 to 6.
How should the result be interpreted?
Standardized basic activities of daily living index, developed to assess function in older adults.
What are the sources?
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.