Lawton IADL Scale — Instrumental Activities of Daily Living
8-domain self/informant rating of higher-order daily function (Lawton & Brody 1969). Original female 0–8; for men, food preparation/housekeeping/laundry typically excluded — score 0–5. Lower = greater dependence.
Score interpretation
→ No additional support indicated. Routine review.
→ Comprehensive geriatric assessment. OT review for kitchen/medication/transport adaptations. Consider day-care, befriending services. Screen cognition (AMTS / 6-CIT / MoCA).
→ Care package essential — consider domiciliary or residential care. Power-of-attorney / capacity discussion. Carer assessment and support.
Interpretation bands for the Lawton IADL. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Falls Assessment in Older Adults · NICE CG161 2013
- Delirium Outside ICU · NICE CG103
- Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) · BGS / NICE
- Delirium Assessment and Management · NICE CG103 2010
- Frailty Recognition and Management · BGS Frailty Framework / NHS NHSE
- Polypharmacy and Medicines Optimisation · STOPP/START v2 2014 / NICE NG5
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.