What is the most common form of dementia characterized by a decline in memory and cognitive functioning?

Alzheimer's Disease is the most prevalent form of dementia, accounting for a significant majority of diagnosed cases. It is primarily characterized by a gradual decline in cognitive functioning, particularly memory, which is often one of the earliest symptoms observed.

The condition involves the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, leading to neuronal damage and a progressive loss of synaptic connections. Memory impairment in Alzheimer's Disease typically starts with short-term memory loss, eventually affecting long-term memory and other cognitive skills necessary for daily functioning.

In contrast, while other forms of dementia such as Vascular Dementia, Frontotemporal Dementia, and cognitive changes associated with Parkinson's Disease also present challenges to cognitive function, they have distinct features and pathology. Vascular Dementia is often related to cerebrovascular issues, Frontotemporal Dementia is characterized by personality and behavioral changes due to degeneration in the frontal and temporal lobes, and Parkinson's Disease dementia usually occurs later and is intertwined with motor symptoms. Thus, Alzheimer's stands out as the most common and is primarily associated with memory decline.