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Apraxia is the inability to perform purposeful movements on demand. It is a neurological symptom, rather than a muscular one. It occurs in people whose muscles and senses are properly functioning. People who experience apraxia understand the command and are familiar with the task involved, but are unable to coordinate their movements to carry out the activity.
Apraxia is a symptom of neurological damage that most often occurs as a result of damage to the parietal lobe of the brain. This part of the brain is associated with planning and executing skilled movements of the eyes and limbs, as well as voice muscles. In some cases, apraxia can occur when other parts of the brain are damaged.
People who experience apraxia may have trouble performing complex tasks such bathing or dressing. They may also have difficulties using tools (e.g. scissors, pencils, hammers) or they may use tools inappropriately (e.g. attempting to write with a screwdriver). In some cases, apraxia may affect the ability to purposefully move the muscles of the lips, mouth and tongue, making it difficult to talk. When any of these difficulties are mild rather than severe, it is called dyspraxia.
Apraxia does not indicate reduced intelligence or mental capacity. However, in some cases, it may indicate certain disorders (e.g., dementia) that can result in a decline in mental capacity. Most often, patients are aware of the apraxia and their inability to perform certain tasks, which can cause them to become frustrated and depressed. In some cases, the patient or caregiver may be unaware of the true extent of the apraxia. This may happen if the patient becomes uninterested and lethargic in daily activities, as often occurs in the latter stages of Alzheimer's disease or following a stroke. | 
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