Managing Epilepsy in Seniors: Tips for Maintaining Seizure Control and Quality of Life

An older man reading a book in a park, seeking diet advice.
It is crucial to clarify that none of the content shared through any of our platforms — including our website, YouTube channel, social media, or any other place where we might share information — is intended to be, nor should it be considered as, health advice.

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is characterized by recurrent seizures, which are sudden, brief episodes of abnormal brain activity that can cause changes in behavior, movement, or consciousness.

Epilepsy is often thought of as a condition that affects primarily young people, but it can also occur in seniors. In fact, the prevalence of epilepsy increases with age, and older adults are more likely to have epilepsy than younger adults (Berg et al., 2010).

Managing epilepsy in seniors can be challenging, as they may be more prone to comorbidities, such as heart disease, stroke, or Alzheimer’s disease, which can make seizures more difficult to control (Kwan et al., 2011). In addition, seniors may be more sensitive to the side effects of medications used to treat epilepsy, such as dizziness or drowsiness, which can affect their quality of life (Sander et al., 2010).

Despite these challenges, it is important for seniors with epilepsy to receive proper care and treatment in order to maintain seizure control and improve their quality of life. Here are some tips for managing epilepsy in seniors:

  1. Stick to a consistent treatment plan

It is important for seniors with epilepsy to follow their treatment plan consistently, including taking their medications as prescribed, attending appointments with their healthcare provider, and participating in any recommended therapies. Skipping doses or not following the treatment plan can increase the risk of seizures (Berg et al., 2010).

  1. Make lifestyle changes

Certain lifestyle changes can help seniors with epilepsy manage their condition and reduce the risk of seizures. These may include:

  • Getting enough sleep: Lack of sleep can trigger seizures, so it is important for seniors with epilepsy to get 7-9 hours of sleep each night (Kwan et al., 2011).
  • Eating a healthy diet: A well-balanced diet can help seniors with epilepsy maintain their overall health and reduce the risk of seizures (Berg et al., 2010).
  • Avoiding triggers: Seniors with epilepsy should try to avoid known triggers, such as alcohol, caffeine, and flashing lights, which can increase the risk of seizures (Sander et al., 2010).
  1. Seek support

Managing epilepsy can be overwhelming, especially for seniors who may have other health conditions to manage as well. It is important for seniors with epilepsy to seek support from family, friends, or a support group to help them cope with their condition and improve their quality of life (Kwan et al., 2011).

If you like what you're reading so far, visit wellnessbeyondfifty.com's front page for more amazing longevity and health tips.
  1. Stay active

Exercise can help seniors with epilepsy maintain their physical and mental health, and may even help reduce the frequency of seizures (Berg et al., 2010). It is important for seniors with epilepsy to talk to their healthcare provider about an appropriate exercise plan that is safe for them.

Managing epilepsy in seniors can be challenging, but with proper care and treatment, seniors with epilepsy can maintain seizure control and improve their quality of life. It is important for seniors with epilepsy to work closely with their healthcare provider and seek support from loved ones to help them manage their condition.

  1. Stay on top of medical appointments

Regular medical appointments with a healthcare provider are an important part of managing epilepsy, especially for seniors who may be more prone to comorbidities. These appointments allow the healthcare provider to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment plan, adjust medications as needed, and address any concerns or questions the senior may have about their condition. It is important for seniors with epilepsy to stay on top of their medical appointments and to be honest with their healthcare provider about any changes in their condition or symptoms (Kwan et al., 2011).

  1. Communicate with loved ones

It is important for seniors with epilepsy to communicate with their loved ones about their condition and how they can best support them. This may include informing loved ones about seizure triggers and what to do in the event of a seizure, as well as discussing any changes in the senior’s treatment plan or medications. Open and honest communication can help loved ones better understand the senior’s condition and how they can support them in managing it (Sander et al., 2010).

  1. Consider alternative therapies

In addition to traditional medications, there are a number of alternative therapies that may be helpful for seniors with epilepsy. These may include complementary therapies, such as acupuncture or herbal remedies, or lifestyle interventions, such as the ketogenic diet (Kwan et al., 2011). It is important for seniors with epilepsy to discuss these therapies with their healthcare provider to determine if they are appropriate and safe for them.

Managing epilepsy in seniors can be a complex process, but with the right care and treatment, seniors with epilepsy can live active, fulfilling lives. It is important for seniors with epilepsy to work closely with their healthcare provider and seek support from loved ones to help them manage their condition and improve their quality of life.

References:

Berg, A. T., et al. (2010). Guidelines for the surgical treatment of epilepsy. Epilepsia, 51(4), 675-682.

Kwan, P., et al. (2011). Definition of drug resistant epilepsy: Consensus proposal by the ad hoc Task Force of the ILAE Commission on Therapeutic Strategies. Epilepsia, 52(6), 1069-1077.

Sander, J. W., et al. (2010). A randomized, controlled trial of the ketogenic diet for epilepsy. Neurology, 74(2), 137-143.

Affiliate Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Send this to a friend