How Alzheimer's Affects the 4 Memory Systems of the Brain

The different memory systems of the brain -- episodic, semantic, procedural, and working -- and how they are affected by Alzheimer's disease.Seven Stages of Alzheimer's diseaseBy Alzheimer's Reading RoomThehuman brain contains an estimated 100 billion nerve cells (neurons).Chemical and electrical activity allows these neurons to perform their tasks and to communicate with one another.This elaborate communication system controls vital body functions and enables us to think, see, move, talk, remember, and experience emotions.What ’s the Difference Between Alzheimer’s and DementiaHow Memory Is Affected in Alzheimer'sNormal aging leads to changes in the brain, especially in areas involved inlearning and memory. Some neurons shrink; others are disabled by damaging molecules called free radicals. Daily "insults," such ashigh blood pressure or elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also take their toll.Over time, these changes can make itmore difficult for an older person to learn new tasks or to retrieve information from memory, such as someone's name. With Alzheimer's disease, the damage is more severe and ultimately affects larger regions of the brain.Subscribe to the Alzheimer's Reading RoomEmail:The different memory systems --episodic, semantic, procedural, and working -- involve multiple areas of the brain.Episodic Memory. The temporal lobe, which contains the hippocampus, and the prefrontal cortex are important to episodic memory, whichenables us to learn new...
Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The - Category: Neurology Tags: alzheimer's awareness alzheimer's care Alzheimer's Dementia care of dementia patients at home how does alzheimer's affect brain searches related to memory Source Type: blogs