Which apraxia is defined by inability to conceive and execute a sequence of steps, commonly seen with dementia (e.g., frontotemporal dementia)?

• A. Limb apraxia
• B. Ideational apraxia
• C. Ideomotor apraxia
• D. Gait apraxia

Answer: (B)

In this type of apraxia, the core issue is planning the action sequence itself. Ideational apraxia means the person cannot conceive, organize, or sequence the multi-step plan needed to complete a task. Because the task requires imagining the series of steps before acting, individuals with this impairment struggle to form and carry out that plan, leading to errors or omissions in complex activities. This pattern is often seen in dementia, including frontotemporal dementia, where the brain’s planning and conceptual networks are affected. By contrast, ideomotor apraxia involves understanding the task and its steps but failing to translate that plan into actual movements when asked, though performance can improve with cues or imitation. Limb apraxia reflects a problem with planning limb movements despite intact understanding, and gait apraxia is difficulty initiating or coordinating walking without muscle weakness. Therefore, the described inability to conceive and execute a sequence of steps aligns with ideational apraxia.