What cognitive function is primarily impaired in Alzheimer's disease?

• A. Attention
• B. Language
• C. Memory
• D. Creativity

Answer: (C)

Cognitive function primarily impaired in Alzheimer’s disease is memory. This progressive neurodegenerative disorder is characterized by an initial and significant decline in short-term memory, which affects an individual's ability to retain new information. As the disease advances, long-term memory and other cognitive functions, such as language and problem-solving abilities, can also be impacted.

The hippocampus, which plays a crucial role in the formation of new memories, is one of the first brain areas to be affected by Alzheimer’s. Patients may struggle to remember recent events or learn new information, while often retaining older memories for a period of time. This distinctive pattern of memory impairment is what makes Alzheimer's disease particularly recognizable and is a focus for early diagnosis and intervention.

While attention, language, and creativity can also decline as the disease progresses, they typically are secondary to the more severe memory impairment experienced early in the course of the condition, reinforcing the idea that memory is the primary cognitive function affected in Alzheimer's disease.