dressing apraxia
Specific inability to dress oneself properly despite adequate motor function and clothing recognition.
Full Definition
Dressing apraxia is a specialized form of constructional apraxia that specifically affects the ability to put on clothing correctly. Patients with this condition can recognize clothing items and understand their purpose but struggle with the spatial and sequential aspects of dressing, such as orienting garments properly, sequencing dressing steps, or navigating complex closures. This deficit typically results from right parietal lobe lesions and is often associated with unilateral spatial neglect. Dressing apraxia can significantly impact independence and quality of life, making it a crucial target for occupational therapy intervention. Assessment involves observing the patient attempt to put on various garments while noting specific error patterns and strategies employed.
Usage
Usage note: Document specific dressing errors to guide targeted intervention strategies.
In Context
- "The patient's dressing apraxia manifested as persistent attempts to put his shirt on backwards despite verbal cuing." — Occupational therapy assessment
- "Dressing apraxia was identified as a primary barrier to independent living following the patient's stroke." — Discharge planning summary