Dyspraxia in adults
Adult symptoms, assessment and support.
Conditions and profiles
Dyspraxia
Dyspraxia is often used to describe developmental coordination disorder (DCD). Start with the tasks that are difficult and the support that would make a difference.
DCD affects movement and coordination. Balance, spatial awareness and tasks using small hand movements may be difficult. Adults may also find planning or learning new skills demanding. The pattern differs between people.
In children, DCD can affect dressing, handwriting and physical activities. It does not indicate lower intelligence. Development varies, so assessment considers more than being slower to acquire one skill.
Occupational therapy can help with everyday tasks. Work or study adjustments may include written instructions, extra time and a quieter space.
- Describe a difficult task when asking for support.
- For a child, discuss breaking a movement task into smaller steps or adapting equipment with their school or therapist.
Adults can discuss difficulties with a GP, using current and childhood examples. Referral options vary locally.
For a child, discuss concerns with a GP, health visitor or the school’s special educational needs coordinator. Assessment may involve a paediatrician or occupational therapist.
New or worsening movement difficulties deserve medical advice rather than being assumed to be developmental dyspraxia. A clinician can consider other explanations.
Read the sources:NHS: Dyspraxia in adults (opens in a new tab)
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Developmental coordination disorder in children
Child development, assessment and practical support.
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