What cognitive functions are generally lost in advanced-stage Alzheimer's?

In advanced stages of Alzheimer's disease, cognitive functions become severely impaired, leading to significant challenges for the individual. The loss of the ability to reason, solve problems, or recognize familiar objects is notably pronounced. Individuals may struggle with logical thinking and decision-making, making it difficult for them to engage in everyday activities.

Reasoning involves higher-level cognitive processes that allow individuals to assess situations, draw conclusions, and make informed choices. In advanced Alzheimer's, these capabilities deteriorate, which can lead to confusion and an inability to navigate environments or engage meaningfully with their surroundings.

Problem-solving skills are also compromised; this means that even simple tasks that were once routine can become overwhelming. The failure to recognize familiar objects highlights the profound impact on perception and memory. As Alzheimer's progresses, individuals may no longer associate familiar items with their functions, which can lead to increased dependency on caregivers.

While communication, physical engagement, and recall of recent events are also affected in advanced Alzheimer's, the specific cognitive deterioration of reasoning, problem-solving, and recognition delineates a more profound loss of higher cognitive function crucial for independent living.