Final answer:
Severe dementia, particularly in conditions like Alzheimer's disease, leads to major cognitive and physical disabilities, with patients losing the ability to recognize loved ones, communicate, and control basic bodily functions. While genetic and environmental risk factors contribute to the progression, management through diet, cognitive rehabilitation, and psychosocial support can affect the quality of life.
Step-by-step explanation:
Description of Severe Dementia
Very severe cognitive decline, often associated with severe stages of dementia such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), results in profound impairment in mental functioning. At this stage, individuals are usually unable to recognize family members or to communicate effectively. They become fully dependent on others for care and may lose control over basic bodily functions, which includes bladder and bowel control, as well as proper swallowing. Severe AD involves extensive damage to the brain, and it progresses to the point where it causes death, often due to complications arising from the loss of these basic functions.
Impact on Life and Capability
In the context of severe dementia, patients typically exhibit disruptive memory loss, confusion about time or place, and significant difficulty with planning and executing daily activities. These symptoms extend beyond cognitive deficits to include agitation, inappropriate behaviors, and severe declines in physical functioning including issues with movement and balance. The severe progression of the disease can lead to a stage where affected individuals may forget how to walk, talk, and eventually eat.
Research and Management
Alzheimer's disease has both genetic and environmental risk factors, and while there is no cure, factors such as diet and cognitive rehabilitation can help manage the progression of symptoms. Research has explored virtual reality as a cognitive rehabilitative method, potentially aiding those with mild cognitive impairment to slow the transition into dementia. Psychosocial development, including activities, social connectedness, and cultural roles, are also considered important in the management of diseases like AD.