The Role of Short-Term Memory in Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease primarily affects short-term memory, while long-term memory often remains intact for a longer period. Patients may forget recent interactions but can recall significant past events, highlighting the distinct nature of memory impairment in dementia. The hippocampus, a critical structure for memory, is shown to shrink over time but can grow with regular aerobic physical activity, as evidenced by studies in both humans and mice. This suggests that engaging in exercise can play a significant role in preserving and enhancing memory function, offering hope for preventive strategies against Alzheimer's.