What are Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

Brian Callahan • July 7, 2023

What are Activities of Daily Living (ADL's)?


At 7 Day Home Care, we understand the critical importance of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) in maintaining the independence and quality of life for our clients. ADLs encompass essential self-care tasks that individuals perform daily, including bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, toileting, and transferring (such as moving from a bed to a chair). Our highly trained caregivers provide personalized assistance with these activities, ensuring that each client’s unique needs and preferences are met with dignity and respect. By supporting our clients in managing their ADLs, we help them maintain their autonomy, reduce the risk of accidents or injuries, and enhance their overall well-being. Our comprehensive approach to ADL care not only addresses physical needs but also fosters emotional and social engagement, promoting a holistic sense of health and happiness. Through meticulous care planning and compassionate service, 7 Day Home Care is dedicated to improving the daily lives of our clients, allowing them to live safely and comfortably in their own homes. 7 Day Home Care is licensed by the New York State Department of Health to provide in-home care services in  Manhattan,  Queens, Brooklyn, Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York. 

A nurse is helping an elderly woman walk with a walker.

Are You Searching for a Home Care Agency Near Me

for Assistance with Activities of Daily Living?


As individuals age or face health challenges, the ability to independently carry out Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) can become challenging. At 7 Day Home Care, we understand the importance of maintaining independence and dignity for our clients. In this article, we will delve into the various ADLs and highlight how our professional caregivers assist individuals in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau County, and Suffolk County. Our approach aims to empower clients while ensuring their safety and well-being.


Bathing and Personal Hygiene

Maintaining personal hygiene is essential for overall well-being. According to the National Institute on Aging, approximately 1 in 3 seniors over the age of 65 experiences difficulty with bathing or showering. Our caregivers are trained to provide support with bathing, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for our clients.


Dressing and Grooming

Putting on clothes, fastening buttons, and tying shoelaces can become challenging for individuals with mobility or dexterity limitations. The American Occupational Therapy Association  reports that up to 86% of adults with arthritis have difficulty dressing themselves. 7 Day Home Care's compassionate caregivers assist clients in selecting appropriate attire and provide support with dressing and grooming tasks.


Eating and Meal Preparation

Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining good health. The AARP Foundation reports that 1 in 10 seniors in the United States is at risk of hunger. Our caregivers not only help with meal preparation, but they also ensure that clients are consuming a balanced diet, meeting their dietary requirements, and following any specific dietary restrictions.


Mobility and Transfers

Limited mobility can significantly impact an individual's independence and quality of life. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 40% of adults aged 65 and older have at least one disability related to mobility. Our caregivers provide assistance with mobility, transfers, and help clients navigate their surroundings, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.


Toileting and Incontinence Care

Toileting and managing incontinence can be sensitive issues for individuals. The Urology Care Foundation states that over 33 million Americans have overactive bladder, and the National Association for Continence reports that 25 million Americans experience urinary incontinence. Our caregivers offer discreet and compassionate support, ensuring comfort and maintaining dignity during toileting and incontinence care.


Medication Management

Proper medication management is crucial for maintaining health and preventing adverse reactions. The American Pharmacists Association estimates that medication non-adherence results in 125,000 deaths annually in the United States. 7 Day Home Care's Home Health Aides assist clients with medication reminders, ensuring that medications are taken as prescribed and reducing the risk of medication-related complications.


At 7 Day Home Care, we recognize the significance of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) in promoting independence, well-being, and quality of life for our clients. With our dedicated and compassionate caregivers, we aim to enhance the lives of individuals in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau County, and Suffolk County. By providing personalized support with ADLs, we empower our clients to lead fulfilling lives while maintaining their dignity and autonomy. For assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADL's), please call 7 Day Home Care today at 516-408-0034.


Brian Callahan

7 Day Home Care

By Brian Callahan December 18, 2025
A stroke doesn’t just affect the body — it disrupts an entire life. For many families, the most frightening part doesn’t happen during the emergency itself, but after the hospital discharge, when doctors say, “You can take them home now.” That moment often brings more questions than relief. How will they walk again? Will their speech improve? What if they fall? What if something goes wrong at night? Stroke recovery is not a short-term event. It is a long, uneven process that requires patience, structure, and consistent care. While hospitals and rehabilitation centers handle the acute phase, the real recovery happens at home — where routines are rebuilt and independence is slowly regained. This is why professional post-stroke home care services have become essential for families trying to manage recovery safely and realistically. Across New York, families searching for home care in East Meadow , Home Health Care Service Oceanside , or a reliable Home Care Agency in Glen Cove NY often reach the same conclusion: recovery at home is possible, but not without the right support. Providers like 7 Day Home Care exist to bridge the gap between hospital treatment and long-term stability at home. Understanding Stroke and How It Changes Daily Life A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, depriving brain cells of oxygen. Depending on which area of the brain is affected, the consequences can vary widely — but almost always involve some loss of function. Types of Stroke and Their Impact on Recovery Ischemic strokes , caused by blood clots, are the most common and often leave survivors with weakness or paralysis on one side of the body. Hemorrhagic strokes , caused by bleeding in the brain, may involve longer recovery times and greater cognitive challenges. Regardless of type, stroke recovery is rarely predictable. Progress may come slowly, and setbacks are common. Common Physical and Cognitive Effects After a Stroke Stroke survivors may experience: Limited mobility or paralysis Difficulty speaking, understanding, or swallowing Memory and concentration problems Emotional changes such as depression, anxiety, or irritability Loss of coordination and balance These changes affect everyday activities — from getting dressed to preparing meals — making independent living unsafe without assistance. Medical Complications Families Often Miss After a Stroke One of the most common misunderstandings families have after a stroke is believing that the most dangerous phase ends once the patient is discharged from the hospital. In reality, the post-discharge period is often medically more risky than the initial emergency. Blood pressure instability, dehydration, infections, and medication inconsistencies frequently develop quietly at home without obvious warning signs. Many stroke survivors are unable to clearly recognize or communicate subtle symptoms such as head pressure, unusual fatigue, mild confusion, or changes in vision. Families may assume these are “normal parts of recovery” and unintentionally delay intervention. This is where professional, medically informed observation becomes critical — not just for daily care, but for early detection of complications before they escalate into emergencies. What Stroke Recovery at Home Really Looks Like Many families expect recovery to be straightforward once their loved one is home. The reality is more complex. Home recovery requires constant adaptation , monitoring, and emotional support. The First Few Weeks After Hospital Discharge The early recovery period is often the most fragile. Stroke survivors are adjusting to new physical limitations while families are learning caregiving responsibilities for the first time. During this phase, the risks of falls, missed medications, dehydration, and emotional distress are highest. Professional post-stroke home care during this time provides structure, reassurance, and medical awareness — helping prevent avoidable complications that often lead to hospital readmission. Long-Term Recovery and Daily Adjustment Stroke recovery does not follow a straight line. Some abilities may return, while others require long-term support. At home, progress depends on consistency, encouragement, and safe routines — all of which are difficult to maintain without trained assistance. Daily Care Needs After a Stroke Post-stroke care is deeply personal. No two recovery journeys look the same, but most survivors require help in several key areas. Mobility and Physical Assistance Weakness, paralysis, or balance issues often make walking and transfers unsafe. Caregivers assist with: Moving safely from bed to chair Walking support and fall prevention Encouraging mobility without pushing beyond limits This balance between safety and independence is critical to recovery. Personal Care and Hygiene Support Simple tasks such as bathing or dressing can become overwhelming after a stroke. Assistance with hygiene helps maintain dignity while preventing infections and skin issues. Medication Management and Health Monitoring Stroke survivors are often prescribed medications to prevent another stroke and manage blood pressure or cholesterol. Home care ensures medications are taken correctly and that any concerning symptoms are reported promptly. Nutrition, Swallowing, and Hydration Swallowing difficulties are common and can be dangerous if unmanaged. Caregivers support safe eating practices, monitor hydration, and follow dietary guidelines recommended by healthcare providers. Emotional and Cognitive Support Stroke recovery is emotionally taxing. Survivors may feel frustrated, embarrassed, or discouraged. Compassionate companionship and reassurance help rebuild confidence and reduce isolation. Safety Concerns During Stroke Recovery at Home Safety is one of the biggest reasons families seek professional support. Fall Risk and Home Hazards Limited mobility and poor balance increase the risk of falls, especially in homes not designed for recovery. Emergency Awareness and Monitoring Stroke survivors may not recognize warning signs of another stroke or be able to call for help. Continuous monitoring reduces this risk. Preventing Hospital Readmission Many stroke-related hospital readmissions are preventable. With proper home care, small issues are addressed early before becoming emergencies. How Professional Post-Stroke Home Care Services Support Recovery Professional home care transforms recovery from guesswork into a structured process. Trained Caregivers Who Understand Stroke Recovery Caregivers are trained to assist safely, recognize warning signs, and provide emotional reassurance without limiting independence. Skilled Home Health Support Depending on needs, services may include nursing care, health monitoring, and coordination with physical or speech therapists. Personalized Recovery Plans Providers like 7 Day Home Care create flexible care plans that evolve as recovery progresses, ensuring support remains appropriate at every stage. Support for Families, Not Just Patients Home care also supports families by reducing stress, providing education, and offering peace of mind. Benefits of Recovering at Home After a Stroke For many survivors, home recovery offers advantages that facilities cannot. Familiar surroundings reduce stress One-on-one attention improves safety Emotional support from family boosts motivation Lower risk of infections compared to institutional settings Post-Stroke Home Care in Cedarhurst, East Meadow, Glen Cove, and Oceanside Families often first encounter stroke through emergency services or urgent care in Cedarhurst NY , but recovery extends far beyond urgent treatment. Those seeking home care in East Meadow , Home Care Agency in Glen Cove NY , or Home Health Care Service Oceanside benefit from providers who understand local healthcare systems and home environments. 7 Day Home Care serves families across these communities, offering consistent, compassionate post-stroke care tailored to both urban and suburban living situations. When Families Should Seek Professional Home Care Delaying care often leads to burnout or emergencies. Signs It’s Time for Help Frequent falls or near-falls Missed medications Increasing dependence Emotional exhaustion among family caregivers Seeking professional help is not a failure — it is a responsible decision that protects everyone involved. Frequently Asked Questions Q1.Can stroke recovery be managed at home? Yes, with professional support, many stroke survivors recover safely at home. Q2.How long does stroke recovery take? Recovery varies widely and may continue for months or years. Q3.Is home care better than rehab facilities? Home care offers personalized, one-on-one support in familiar surroundings. Q4.Does home care replace therapy? No. It supports therapy by ensuring exercises and routines are followed safely. Q5.When should families contact 7 Day Home Care? When safety, recovery progress, or caregiver well-being becomes a concern. Conclusion Stroke recovery is not just about healing the body — it’s about rebuilding daily life. With structured, compassionate post-stroke home care services, recovery at home becomes safer, more realistic, and less overwhelming for families. 7 Day Home Care provides trusted private pay and long-term care insurance–supported in-home care services across Manhattan , Long Island , NYC , Queens , and Brooklyn, New York , helping families access consistent, professional support tailored to post-stroke recovery needs. Families who would like guidance on post-stroke in-home care options can request a free consultation to discuss personalized care plans and understand the level of support available for their loved ones.
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