Caregiver Topic: Apraxia

What is "apraxia"?

Apraxia (ah-PRACKS-e-uh) can be broadly described as difficulties with motor planning to perform tasks. What this means is that a person affected by apraxia may have trouble with everyday activities such as putting on clothing and shoes, preparing food, brushing teeth, and many other common things. Apraxia is a very common challenge faced by people with dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease. It is most often caused by physical damage inside the brain, as can happen with many types of dementia. This may mean adapting everyday tasks for the changes that are seen.

Types of Apraxia

There are many types of apraxia that can appear, depending on the area of the brain affected. For example, apraxia of speech may cause someone to say "motamo" instead of "tomato," while ideational or conceptual apraxia may mean a person has difficulty sequencing the steps to carry out a task such as making a sandwich by putting the bread in the middle instead of on the outside. There is also ideomotor apraxia, in which someone can describe how to do something but unable to perform the movements to carry it out, and constructional apraxia, which involves difficulty with writing, drawing, or copying shapes and letters.

How can I help someone experiencing apraxia?

Rehabilitative therapy, such as occupational therapy, physical therapy, and/or speech and language therapy can support someone struggling with apraxia. These can support the greatest degree of functional independence and a higher quality of life, preventing premature disability and dependence. Caregivers are encouraged to provide opportunities for independence also, by supporting loved ones with tasks that are particularly challenging or as requested by the person affected by apraxia. Sometimes, making adaptations or modifications can build self-efficacy, such as by using clothing and shoes that are easier to put on and secure, using apraxia-specific weighted silverware and personal care items, and changing the living space and environment to support independence.

How can I find out more about apraxia?

Here are some suggested resources for further reading about apraxia:

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007472.htm - General Overview of Apraxia

https://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/apraxia-of-speech-in-adults/ - Apraxia of Speech

Originally published June 2024 in the NYMC newsletter.