Early diagnosis and ongoing interventions can improve adaptive functioning throughout one's childhood and into adulthood. Because intellectual developmental disorder is not a disease, it cannot be "cured," nor should an individual with cognitive impairment be considered mentally ill. Many people with intellectual disability can and do function independently and can master activities of daily living, such as food shopping, fully maintaining personal grooming and hygiene, etc. Interventions for those with moderate to severe cognitive impairment often focus on these skills.