Final answer:
The disorder that includes chronic illness, terminal status, memory loss, and cognitive decline is Alzheimer's disease. It is characterized by the progressive death of neurons leading to severe impairment in cognitive functions and daily living activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The disorder that is described as both a chronic and a terminal illness, including symptoms of memory loss and cognitive decline, is Alzheimer's disease. This neurodegenerative disorder worsens over time due to the death of neurons. Symptoms specific to Alzheimer's disease include disruptive memory loss, confusion about time or place, difficulty with planning and executing tasks, poor judgment, and personality changes, which significantly interfere with a person's daily life and eventually lead to death.
Neurodegenerative diseases can arise from various factors including genetics and environmental influences. In the case of Alzheimer's, plaques are formed in the brain due to neuronal cell death, leading to severe forgetfulness and cognitive impairment. Patients may forget how to perform basic activities such as walking, talking, and eating. Research indicates that environmental and nutritional factors may play a role in the mitigation of the disease, with some evidence suggesting that a Mediterranean diet can lower risk. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease, though therapies such as cognitive rehabilitation and potentially virtual reality, may help manage symptoms.