What does the Katz ADL score measure?

It measures independence in six basic daily functions: bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring (getting in/out of bed or chair), continence, and feeding. Each is rated as independent (1) or dependent (0), giving a maximum score of 6.

What is considered a normal score?

A score of 6 indicates full independence. Scores of 4 or higher are generally considered mild impairment, 2–3 moderate impairment, and 0–1 severe dependence. Context and trajectory matter as much as the single number.

How is "independent" defined for each activity?

Independent means the patient performs the task without any human assistance. Use of assistive devices (canes, grab bars, commodes) does not automatically make a patient dependent — only the need for another person's hands-on help counts.

Who developed the Katz ADL scale?

Sidney Katz and colleagues developed the index in 1963 based on studies of recovery from hip fracture. It remains one of the most widely used and validated tools in geriatric and rehabilitation medicine.

Is this tool a substitute for clinical evaluation?

No. The score supplements clinical judgment; it does not replace a full geriatric assessment. Always interpret results in the context of the patient's history, comorbidities, and goals of care.

Katz ADL Score

Rate independence in 6 daily activities — bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, continence, and feeding — to get the Katz ADL score.

Rate Each Activity

Select Independent if the patient performs the task without hands-on help from another person. Assistive devices are allowed.

Bathing

Sponge bath, tub, or shower — independently or needs help with only one body part.

Dressing

Gets clothes from closet and drawers; puts on and removes garments and shoes — fasteners may be an exception.

Toileting

Goes to toilet room, uses toilet, cleans self, arranges clothing — may use grab bars or bedpan/urinal at night.

Transferring

Moves in and out of bed or chair — may use mechanical aids such as a trapeze or cane.

Continence

Exercises complete self-control over urination and defecation — occasional accidents do not disqualify.

Feeding

Gets food from plate or equivalent into mouth — cutting food and preparing food are excluded from evaluation.

Katz ADL Score

– out of 6

bathing

–

dressing

–

toileting

–

transferring

–

continence

–

feeding

–

Rate all 6 activities to see the interpretation.

0 of 6 activities rated

Summary

The Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living (ADL) is a validated 6-item tool used to assess functional status in older adults. Each activity is rated as independent or dependent. The total score (0–6) reflects the level of independence, helping clinicians identify functional decline, plan care, and track recovery.

How it works

Select whether the patient performs each of the 6 activities independently or with assistance.
Each independent activity scores 1 point; dependent scores 0.
The total score (0–6) indicates overall functional independence.
A score of 6 means full independence; 0 means complete dependence.
Intermediate scores suggest partial dependence — use clinical judgment to plan care.

Use cases

Screen older adults for functional decline during hospital admission.
Track recovery of independence after surgery or acute illness.
Guide discharge planning and determine need for home care or skilled nursing.
Compare functional status at baseline and follow-up visits.
Support decisions about care level and rehabilitation goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-06-15 · Reviewed by Nham Vu

Katz ADL Score

Use the Katz ADL Score

Rate Each Activity

Katz ADL Score

Summary

How it works

Use cases

Frequently Asked Questions