What is Cognitive Impairment?

Cognitive impairment is the loss or impairment of memory, orientation or reasoning capabilities. A person with cognitive impairment may very well be able to perform certain ADLs but yet still need supervision. Examples of diseases that cause cognitive impairment would be Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson’s disease, and various forms of dementia. These diseases will eventually lead to functional incapacitation and ultimately to a permanent need for long-term care.