What is KELS and its purpose?

• A. Kohlman Evaluation of Living Skills; assesses basic living skills for discharge planning and community living.
• B. A screening for home safety only.
• C. A test of driving ability.
• D. A measure of occupational interest.

Answer: (A)

KELS is an OT-focused tool that measures essential living skills needed for independent living and discharge planning. It evaluates how well a person can perform daily tasks such as self-care, safety and health management, money handling, transportation, and communication. The goal is to determine whether someone can return home safely, what supports or services they’ll need, and what training or environmental adjustments might help them live independently in the community. It’s not just a home-safety screening, driving test, or an interest measure—the emphasis is on overall readiness for community living and the level of supervision or assistance required.