Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Damage to which structure is specifically linked with memory issues in clients with Alzheimer's disease?

1. The cerebellum

2. The hippocampus

3. The hypothalamus

4. The thalamus

The correct answer is: The hippocampus

Memory issues in clients with Alzheimer's disease are specifically linked to damage in the hippocampus. The hippocampus plays a crucial role in the formation and retrieval of memories, particularly in converting short-term memories into long-term ones. In Alzheimer's disease, neurodegeneration and the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles primarily affect the hippocampus early in the disease process, leading to the characteristic memory deficits observed in patients. The other structures mentioned have different functions. The cerebellum is primarily involved in motor control and coordination, the hypothalamus regulates various autonomic functions such as temperature and hunger, and the thalamus acts as a relay station for sensory information. While these areas may be impacted as the disease progresses, the hippocampus is directly responsible for the memory processes that are notably impaired in Alzheimer's disease.