Final answer:
The condition where a person experiences memory and thinking difficulties without losing the ability to live independently is known as a minor neurocognitive disorder. This contrasts with more severe cognitive impairments seen in major neurocognitive disorder, Parkinson's disease, and early stage Alzheimer's disease.
Step-by-step explanation:
The person who has difficulties with memory and thinking that do not prevent independent living likely has a minor neurocognitive disorder. This condition is characterized by a decline in cognitive function that is modest and does not interfere significantly with daily life activities or independence. In contrast, conditions like major neurocognitive disorder, Parkinson's disease, and early stage Alzheimer's disease often involve a greater level of cognitive decline and may interfere with independent living.
For instance, Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disease, primarily presents with motor symptoms such as slowed movements, balance and posture problems, rigid muscles, speech changes, and sometimes psychological symptoms like dementia, which may eventually affect independent living. Early stage Alzheimer's disease is associated with memory loss, confusion about time or place, difficulty with planning and executing tasks, and personality changes, which can all interfere significantly with a person’s ability to live independently.
Therefore, the condition in which the person has difficulties with memory and thinking but can still maintain independent living is referred to as minor neurocognitive disorder.