In the context of mobility and ADLs, what does "dressing" refer to?

In the context of mobility and activities of daily living (ADLs), "dressing" specifically refers to the ability to put on and take off clothing independently. This ability is a crucial aspect of personal independence and self-care, as it enables individuals to manage their own garments without assistance. Successful dressing encompasses understanding how to choose clothing as well as physically putting it on and removing it, but at its core, it focuses on the independent performance of the task.

While choosing appropriate clothing for different occasions can be related to dressing, it is more about decision-making and personal preferences rather than the physical act of dressing itself. Assistance required for all clothing choices implies a lack of independence, which falls outside the definition of dressing as a personal skill. Lastly, only putting on shoes independently does not encompass the full range of what dressing entails, which includes all types of clothing, not just footwear. Thus, dressing captures the complete act of managing garments on one's own, highlighting the importance of independence in this essential daily activity.