What condition is associated with memory loss and the inability to learn new things?

Alzheimer's disease is primarily characterized by progressive memory loss and an increasing difficulty in forming new memories. This neurodegenerative disorder primarily affects older adults, leading to significant impairments in cognitive functions, particularly memory, reasoning, and language abilities.

In Alzheimer's disease, the brain undergoes pathological changes, including the accumulation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, which disrupt communication between neurons and ultimately lead to cell death. Patients often experience difficulty with short-term memory, making it challenging to learn new information and form new memories. As the disease progresses, it can severely affect daily functioning and independence.

Understanding the cognitive decline in Alzheimer's not only involves recognizing the memory loss but also acknowledges the impact on the ability to learn new information, which is critical for everyday activities and maintaining social relationships. This condition distinctly illustrates the challenges associated with memory and learning, setting it apart from other disorders listed that may have cognitive symptoms but do not primarily focus on memory loss in the same way.