Which term describes a rapid drop in cognitive functioning shortly before death?

• A. Cognitive decline
• B. Terminal decline
• C. Altruistic suicide
• D. Physical decline

Answer: (B)

Terminal decline is the pattern where cognitive abilities deteriorate rapidly in the period shortly before death. It stands apart from normal aging, which usually shows a slower, steadier decline, by describing a relatively abrupt drop across cognitive domains as end of life approaches. This concept helps distinguish changes tied to imminent death from typical age-related cognitive changes, guiding care planning and understanding prognosis. The other terms don’t fit: cognitive decline generally refers to gradual, long-term loss in cognition; physical decline involves bodily health rather than cognitive function; altruistic suicide is not about cognitive changes near death.