Which type of memory is typically first affected by Alzheimer's disease (AD)?

Episodic memory is typically the first type of memory affected by Alzheimer’s disease. This type of memory involves the recollection of specific events, experiences, and personal information, often tied to a particular time and place. In early stages of Alzheimer's, individuals may have difficulty forming new memories or recalling recent events, which is characteristic of episodic memory decline.

The impairment in episodic memory can manifest as difficulty remembering recent conversations, appointments, or personal events, which can significantly impact a person's daily life and independence. This initial impairment serves as an early indicator of the disease's progression, as other forms of memory, such as procedural (involving skills and actions) and semantic (involving knowledge and facts), tend to be less affected in the earlier stages. This distinction helps in the assessment and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, which is crucial for planning care and intervention strategies.