HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What does apraxia affect in an individual?

1. Motor planning and execution

2. Speech and language

3. Memory recall

4. Emotional responses

The correct answer is: Motor planning and execution

Apraxia specifically affects an individual's ability to plan and execute voluntary movements. This neurological disorder can manifest in various forms, with the most commonly known being verbal apraxia, which impacts speech production, and other forms that can affect limb movement or facial expression. In individuals with apraxia, the brain struggles to coordinate the muscle movements necessary to perform tasks, even if they have the capacity to understand the commands and their purpose. This disconnect can lead to difficulty in carrying out activities that require sequencing of movements, which is essential for tasks like speaking, writing, or buttoning a shirt. While there may be overlap with aspects of speech and language, particularly in cases of verbal apraxia, the primary issue resides in the planning and execution phase of movement rather than in the understanding or cognitive functions related to communication. This distinction is crucial for understanding the nature of apraxia and how it differs from other disorders that may affect speech, memory, or emotional responses.