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Epilepsy in later life

Last checked 06/08/2008

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Introduction

Many people believe that epilepsy is something you are born with. In fact, epilepsy can begin at any time in life, from birth right through to old age. It is only relatively recently, however, that doctors are realising just how frequently epilepsy begins in later life. And, because people are now living longer, epilepsy in older people is now very common.

If you developed epilepsy in later life, this information is intended for you. Epilepsy is very complex. It is not our intention to cover every aspect or to go into detail here. However, we hope that you will find this a useful introduction to the condition.

Why might I have developed epilepsy now?

There are a number of possible reasons why you might have developed epilepsy now. Additionally, it is said that people who develop epilepsy have a lower ‘seizure threshold' or resistance to seizures than people who do not have the condition. Each person's level of seizure threshold is something they are born with. When a low seizure threshold is combined with one of the possible causes, epilepsy can develop.

In some cases, there does not have to be a cause, the seizures are just ‘one of those things'. However, when epilepsy begins later in life, it is more usual for a cause to be identified. Your doctor or epilepsy nurse should be able to give you information about your own particular epilepsy.

  

Treatment

The main way epilepsy is treated is with anti-epileptic medication. This is taken regularly each day, not just when a seizure happens. The idea behind it is to prevent further seizures, and doctors may recommend that you continue to take the medication indefinitely.

  

Memory

Some people find that their memory gets worse with age, without there being any particular cause. Epilepsy and AEDs can occasionally make memory problems worse. This can usually be improved by adjusting the AEDs to reduce side effects and ensure best control of the seizures.

 

Other health problems

If you have any other medical conditions and/or are taking other medication, do be sure to tell your GP and any other doctor treating you. This may be important when deciding what treatment is best for you.

  

Making treatment easier

  • Most AEDs are available in different formulations, not just tablets or capsules. These include liquids and chewable tablets. Ask your GP to prescribe these if you have difficulty swallowing tablets.
  • Ask the pharmacist for clear instructions, in large print if necessary.
  • If the packaging is difficult to deal with, ask the pharmacist to change it.
  • Ask the pharmacist about Dosette boxes. These will keep your medication organised and help to ensure it is taken at the right time.
  • Find out about other special pill containers and reminders that might be useful to you.
  • Further information on medication aids is available from Epilepsy Action.

 

Coming to terms with epilepsy

Being diagnosed with epilepsy at any time in life can come as a shock and some people find it difficult to come to terms with. There can be all sorts of reasons for this. Some older people will inevitably remember how epilepsy was perceived and treated years ago and may fear that little has changed.

The good news is that a lot has changed. The drugs now available are hugely improved in terms of effectiveness and side effects. Doctors' knowledge about the condition is far greater than it was. And, although you may still encounter misunderstanding and prejudice, there is no doubt that public attitudes to epilepsy are changing – for the better – all the time.

  

Living with epilepsy

You may feel that life has completely changed, now that you have a diagnosis of epilepsy. You may feel you have lost some self-confidence and are anxious about having further seizures. Of course it is important to be sensible and not take unnecessary risks. But it is equally important to live your life as fully as you did before the epilepsy, only avoiding activities that would be dangerous if a seizure occurred. The following are some suggestions to help with day to day living.

  • Consider telling other people about your epilepsy and how to deal with your seizures.
  • Consider carrying an epilepsy identity card or wearing identity jewellery, such as that available
  • from MedicAlert (Some Lions Clubs can help with the cost of this.)
  • Consider asking your local Social Services to assess your needs for any special aids or adaptations, such as installing a shower.
  • Consider what safety precautions you may need to take, for example when cooking or bathing.

If you live alone, find out about the special alarms that are available to alert someone that you need help, either through your Social Services or privately.

If you are caring for someone else and feel you need support, or someone caring for you needs support, remember that help may be available.

  

Driving

A diagnosis of epilepsy means losing your driving licence for at least 12 months. This can be very hard to accept because for many people driving is the means to independence. Where driving is essential for work and there are no other options, it may be possible to receive practical help through the Jobcentre. Subsidised rail and bus fares may also be available.

Further information on driving and special transport schemes is available from the Epilepsy Action Online Shop

  

Disability Discrimination Act

This Act makes it unlawful to discriminate against someone because of their epilepsy in many areas of life, such as providing goods and services, education, and employment. It also requires reasonable adjustments to be made in these areas, where it would be of benefit for the person with epilepsy.

 

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